Aurora vs Oak Park: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aurora, IL and Oak Park, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Oak Park, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,827 | $135,542▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.82 | $65.16▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,200 | $78,614▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,819 | $112,448▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,778▲ | $161,931 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,139▲ | $196,418 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Aurora and Oak Park are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Aurora and Oak Park is $715 (0.53%). Oak Park's median is -3.61% 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,Oak Park spans $117,804. 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, Oak Park ($139,590 effective) pays 0.53% more than Aurora ($138,854 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,139)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Oak Park if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,542/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,590)
- ✓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 Oak Park over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$129,446 (2024) → $130,951 (2025)
Oak Park, IL
$130,132 (2024) → $131,645 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Oak Park, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Aurora or Oak Park?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Oak Park?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Oak Park as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Aurora vs Oak Park?
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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