Milwaukee vs Sun Prairie: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Milwaukee, WI and Sun Prairie, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | Sun Prairie, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,041 | $143,827▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.40 | $69.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,251 | $83,419▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $116,983 | $120,970▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $168,463 | $174,672▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,179▲ | $210,386 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Milwaukee and Sun Prairie are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Sun Prairie is $7,786 (5.72%). Sun Prairie's median is +2.29% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Milwaukee spans $135,928,Sun Prairie spans $126,967. Milwaukee 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, Sun Prairie ($153,990 effective) pays 9.73% 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 Milwaukee if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,179)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Sun Prairie if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,827/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,990)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Milwaukee grew 13.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.4% growth in Sun Prairie over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$116,060 (2019) → $132,130 (2025)
Sun Prairie, WI
$117,980 (2024) → $139,692 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Sun Prairie, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Milwaukee or Sun Prairie?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Sun Prairie?
Should I relocate from Milwaukee to Sun Prairie as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Milwaukee vs Sun Prairie?
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