Bettendorf vs Cedar Rapids: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bettendorf, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bettendorf, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $121,440▲ | $105,905 |
| Hourly Rate | $58.39▲ | $50.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,078 | $81,380▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,655▲ | $99,593 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,691▲ | $133,776 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,979▲ | $171,500 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Bettendorf, IA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cedar Rapids.
The salary gap between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids is $15,535 (14.67%). Bettendorf's median is -13.63% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bettendorf spans $106,901,Cedar Rapids spans $90,120. Bettendorf 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, Bettendorf ($134,336 effective) pays 12.85% more than Cedar Rapids ($119,044 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bettendorf if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($121,440/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($177,979)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,336)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bettendorf grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -29.2% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Bettendorf, IA
$110,548 (2024) → $117,949 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$145,380 (2019) → $102,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bettendorf, IA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bettendorf or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Bettendorf to Cedar Rapids as a optometrist?
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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