Rockford vs Streamwood: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Rockford, IL and Streamwood, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rockford, IL | Streamwood, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,423▲ | $130,505 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.11▲ | $62.74 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,545▲ | $76,487 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,908▲ | $107,170 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,311▲ | $158,789 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $207,907▲ | $191,385 |
| Total Employed | 34▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Streamwood.
The salary gap between Rockford and Streamwood is $4,918 (3.77%). Rockford's median is -3.69% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rockford spans $129,362,Streamwood spans $114,898. Rockford 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, Rockford ($139,468 effective) pays 3.77% more than Streamwood ($134,403 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,423/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($207,907)
- ✓Larger job market (34 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,468)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Streamwood if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Rockford grew 3.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Streamwood over the same period.
Rockford, IL
$127,240 (2021) → $131,530 (2025)
Streamwood, IL
$125,296 (2024) → $126,753 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rockford, IL
Streamwood, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
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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