Lincoln vs North Platte: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lincoln, NE and North Platte, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lincoln, NE | North Platte, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,255▲ | $119,640 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.62▲ | $57.52 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $56,793 | $72,618▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,418 | $100,372▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $147,552▲ | $141,118 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $199,619▲ | $167,074 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Lincoln, NE offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to North Platte.
The salary gap between Lincoln and North Platte is $10,615 (8.87%). Lincoln's median is -7.37% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lincoln spans $142,826,North Platte spans $94,456. Lincoln 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, Lincoln ($142,229 effective) pays 8.78% more than North Platte ($130,754 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lincoln if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($130,255/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($199,619)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,229)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose North Platte if…
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lincoln grew 49.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in North Platte over the same period.
Lincoln, NE
$84,450 (2019) → $126,510 (2025)
North Platte, NE
$108,908 (2024) → $116,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lincoln, NE
North Platte, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lincoln or North Platte?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lincoln and North Platte?
Should I relocate from Lincoln to North Platte as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Lincoln vs North Platte?
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