Kenosha vs Milwaukee: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Kenosha, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kenosha, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,804▲ | $136,041 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.58▲ | $65.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,147▲ | $77,251 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,622▲ | $116,983 |
| 75th Percentile | $175,331▲ | $168,463 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,406▲ | $213,179 |
| Total Employed | 25 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Kenosha, WI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Milwaukee.
The salary gap between Kenosha and Milwaukee is $10,763 (7.91%). Kenosha's median is +4.40% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kenosha spans $136,259,Milwaukee spans $135,928. Kenosha has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kenosha ($157,178 effective) pays 12.00% more than Milwaukee ($140,340 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kenosha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,804/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,406)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $157,178)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Kenosha grew 18.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.8% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Kenosha, WI
$120,422 (2024) → $142,584 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$116,060 (2019) → $132,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kenosha, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Kenosha or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kenosha and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Kenosha to Milwaukee as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Kenosha vs Milwaukee?
Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov