South Bend vs Terre Haute: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between South Bend, IN and Terre Haute, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | South Bend, IN | Terre Haute, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,455▲ | $140,198 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.49▲ | $67.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,412 | $81,315▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $106,419 | $110,819▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $168,587 | $170,414▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $182,249 | $202,918▲ |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 13 |
Verdict
South Bend, IN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Terre Haute.
The salary gap between South Bend and Terre Haute is $2,257 (1.61%). South Bend's median is +1.31% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in South Bend spans $101,837,Terre Haute spans $121,603. Terre Haute 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, Terre Haute ($153,558 effective) pays 0.10% more than South Bend ($153,412 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose South Bend if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($142,455/year)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Terre Haute if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,918)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,558)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in South Bend grew 8.8% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 13.6% growth in Terre Haute over the same period.
South Bend, IN
$127,180 (2021) → $138,360 (2025)
Terre Haute, IN
$119,867 (2024) → $136,167 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
South Bend, IN
Terre Haute, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: South Bend or Terre Haute?
What is the hourly rate difference between South Bend and Terre Haute?
Should I relocate from South Bend to Terre Haute as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in South Bend vs Terre Haute?
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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