Appleton vs West Bend: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Appleton, WI and West Bend, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | West Bend, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $154,502▲ | $145,446 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.29▲ | $69.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,789 | $84,359▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $115,779▲ | $115,471 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,349▲ | $169,859 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,558▲ | $201,807 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to West Bend.
The salary gap between Appleton and West Bend is $9,056 (6.23%). 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,West Bend spans $117,448. 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 7.35% more than West Bend ($155,724 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 West Bend 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 West Bend over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$125,360 (2021) → $150,060 (2025)
West Bend, WI
$119,309 (2024) → $141,265 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
West Bend, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Appleton or West Bend?
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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