Bellevue vs Grand Island: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bellevue, NE and Grand Island, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bellevue, NE | Grand Island, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $124,588 | $125,585▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $59.90 | $60.38▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,260 | $72,840▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,676▲ | $98,906 |
| 75th Percentile | $152,636▲ | $152,484 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $186,863▲ | $185,426 |
| Total Employed | 15▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Bellevue and Grand Island are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Bellevue and Grand Island is $997 (0.80%). Grand Island's median is -10.69% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bellevue spans $114,603,Grand Island spans $112,586. Bellevue 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, Grand Island ($137,251 effective) pays 0.80% more than Bellevue ($136,162 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bellevue if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($186,863)
- ✓Larger job market (15 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Island if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,585/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,251)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bellevue grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Grand Island over the same period.
Bellevue, NE
$113,412 (2024) → $121,006 (2025)
Grand Island, NE
$114,321 (2024) → $121,975 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bellevue, NE
Grand Island, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bellevue or Grand Island?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bellevue and Grand Island?
Should I relocate from Bellevue to Grand Island as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Bellevue vs Grand Island?
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