Appleton vs Eau Claire: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Appleton, WI and Eau Claire, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Eau Claire, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $154,502▲ | $149,512 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.29▲ | $71.88 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,789 | $86,717▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $115,779 | $123,908▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $185,349▲ | $178,492 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,558 | $216,448▲ |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Eau Claire.
The salary gap between Appleton and Eau Claire is $4,990 (3.34%). Appleton's median is +9.88% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Appleton spans $138,769,Eau Claire spans $129,731. Appleton 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, Appleton ($167,176 effective) pays 4.43% more than Eau Claire ($160,077 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Appleton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($154,502/year)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,176)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Eau Claire if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,448)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Appleton grew 19.7% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Eau Claire over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$125,360 (2021) → $150,060 (2025)
Eau Claire, WI
$121,070 (2021) → $145,214 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Eau Claire, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Appleton or Eau Claire?
What is the hourly rate difference between Appleton and Eau Claire?
Should I relocate from Appleton to Eau Claire as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Appleton vs Eau Claire?
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