Appleton vs Sun Prairie: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Appleton, WI and Sun Prairie, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Sun Prairie, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $154,502▲ | $143,827 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.29▲ | $69.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,789 | $83,419▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $115,779 | $120,970▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $185,349▲ | $174,672 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,558▲ | $210,386 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sun Prairie.
The salary gap between Appleton and Sun Prairie is $10,675 (7.42%). 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,Sun Prairie spans $126,967. 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 8.56% more than Sun Prairie ($153,990 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)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,176)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Sun Prairie if…
- ✓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 18.4% growth in Sun Prairie over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$125,360 (2021) → $150,060 (2025)
Sun Prairie, WI
$117,980 (2024) → $139,692 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Sun Prairie, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Appleton or Sun Prairie?
What is the hourly rate difference between Appleton and Sun Prairie?
Should I relocate from Appleton to Sun Prairie as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Appleton vs Sun Prairie?
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