Aurora vs Lake in the Hills: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aurora, IL and Lake in the Hills, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Lake in the Hills, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,827▲ | $133,535 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.82▲ | $64.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,200▲ | $77,451 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,819 | $105,246▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,778▲ | $155,216 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,139▲ | $197,030 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Aurora, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lake in the Hills.
The salary gap between Aurora and Lake in the Hills is $1,292 (0.97%). 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,Lake in the Hills spans $119,579. 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 0.97% more than Lake in the Hills ($137,523 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 Lake in the Hills 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 1.2% growth in Lake in the Hills over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$129,446 (2024) → $130,951 (2025)
Lake in the Hills, IL
$128,205 (2024) → $129,696 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Lake in the Hills, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Aurora or Lake in the Hills?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Lake in the Hills?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Lake in the Hills as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Aurora vs Lake in the Hills?
Related Comparisons
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