Appleton vs Milwaukee: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Appleton, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $154,502▲ | $136,041 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.29▲ | $65.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,789 | $77,251▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $115,779 | $116,983▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $185,349▲ | $168,463 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,558▲ | $213,179 |
| Total Employed | 60 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Milwaukee.
The salary gap between Appleton and Milwaukee is $18,461 (13.57%). 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,Milwaukee spans $135,928. 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 19.12% more than Milwaukee ($140,340 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)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($214,558)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,176)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓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 13.8% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$125,360 (2021) → $150,060 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$116,060 (2019) → $132,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Appleton or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Appleton and Milwaukee?
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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