Minneapolis vs Prior Lake: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Prior Lake, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Prior Lake, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $164,520▲ | $135,557 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.09▲ | $65.17 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,471▲ | $78,623 |
| 25th Percentile | $134,878▲ | $106,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,531▲ | $157,682 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $202,100▲ | $200,204 |
| Total Employed | 470▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Prior Lake.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Prior Lake is $28,963 (21.37%). Minneapolis's median is +17.00% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $103,629,Prior Lake spans $121,581. Prior Lake has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Minneapolis ($156,952 effective) pays 14.05% more than Prior Lake ($137,621 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,520/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,100)
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,952)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Prior Lake if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Minneapolis grew 31.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -1.0% growth in Prior Lake over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$121,460 (2019) → $159,790 (2025)
Prior Lake, MN
$133,039 (2024) → $131,660 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Prior Lake, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Minneapolis or Prior Lake?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Prior Lake?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Prior Lake as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Minneapolis vs Prior Lake?
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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