Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,730 | $138,399▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.21 | $66.54▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,638 | $100,757▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $125,755 | $128,278▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,037 | $170,924▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $235,470 | $244,221▲ |
| Total Employed | 50 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ann Arbor.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids is $669 (0.49%). Grand Rapids's median is -1.57% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $146,832,Grand Rapids spans $143,464. Ann Arbor 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, Grand Rapids ($144,851 effective) pays 6.10% more than Ann Arbor ($136,529 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,399/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($244,221)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,851)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Ann Arbor grew 1.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.4% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$132,030 (2019) → $133,770 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$125,160 (2019) → $134,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ann Arbor or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Grand Rapids as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids?
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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