Aurora vs Carbondale: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aurora, IL and Carbondale, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Carbondale, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,827▲ | $127,886 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.82▲ | $61.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,200 | $79,608▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,819 | $108,454▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,778▲ | $152,010 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,139▲ | $180,012 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Aurora, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Carbondale.
The salary gap between Aurora and Carbondale is $6,941 (5.43%). Aurora's median is -4.11% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aurora spans $122,939,Carbondale spans $100,404. Aurora 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, Aurora ($138,854 effective) pays 5.43% more than Carbondale ($131,705 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,827/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,139)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $138,854)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Carbondale if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Aurora grew 1.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 56.0% growth in Carbondale over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$129,446 (2024) → $130,951 (2025)
Carbondale, IL
$79,620 (2019) → $124,209 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Carbondale, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Aurora or Carbondale?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Carbondale?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Carbondale as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Aurora vs Carbondale?
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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