Lansing vs Saginaw: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lansing, MI and Saginaw, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lansing, MI | Saginaw, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,579 | $135,730▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.70 | $65.26▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,335 | $78,723▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $130,872▲ | $108,246 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,657 | $161,823▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,332▲ | $194,266 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Lansing and Saginaw are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lansing and Saginaw is $1,151 (0.86%). Saginaw's median is -3.47% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lansing spans $137,997,Saginaw spans $115,543. Lansing 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, Saginaw ($145,633 effective) pays 2.79% more than Lansing ($141,676 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($214,332)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Saginaw if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,730/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,633)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lansing grew 15.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.4% growth in Saginaw over the same period.
Lansing, MI
$112,800 (2019) → $130,710 (2025)
Saginaw, MI
$119,401 (2024) → $131,828 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lansing, MI
Saginaw, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lansing or Saginaw?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lansing and Saginaw?
Should I relocate from Lansing to Saginaw as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Lansing vs Saginaw?
Related Comparisons
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