Aurora vs Rockford: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aurora, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,827 | $135,423▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.82 | $65.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,200 | $78,545▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,819 | $107,908▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,778 | $168,311▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,139 | $207,907▲ |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 34 |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Aurora.
The salary gap between Aurora and Rockford is $596 (0.44%). Rockford's median is -3.69% 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,Rockford spans $129,362. Rockford has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rockford ($139,468 effective) pays 0.44% 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…
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,423/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($207,907)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,468)
- ✓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 3.4% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$129,446 (2024) → $130,951 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$127,240 (2021) → $131,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Aurora or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Rockford?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Rockford as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Aurora vs Rockford?
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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