Naperville vs Rockford: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Naperville, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Naperville, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $151,506▲ | $135,423 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.84▲ | $65.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,873▲ | $78,545 |
| 25th Percentile | $116,835▲ | $107,908 |
| 75th Percentile | $180,983▲ | $168,311 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $234,834▲ | $207,907 |
| Total Employed | 23 | 34▲ |
Verdict
Naperville, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rockford.
The salary gap between Naperville and Rockford is $16,083 (11.88%). Naperville's median is +7.75% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Naperville spans $146,961,Rockford spans $129,362. Naperville 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, Naperville ($156,031 effective) pays 11.88% more than Rockford ($139,468 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Naperville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($151,506/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($234,834)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,031)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Larger job market (34 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Naperville grew 10.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 3.4% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Naperville, IL
$133,778 (2024) → $147,150 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$127,240 (2021) → $131,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Naperville, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Naperville or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Naperville and Rockford?
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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