Bolingbrook vs Chicago: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bolingbrook, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bolingbrook, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,845 | $149,941▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.28 | $72.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,950 | $96,113▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $114,160 | $136,000▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,485 | $167,403▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $199,425▲ | $191,763 |
| Total Employed | 19 | 1,160▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bolingbrook.
The salary gap between Bolingbrook and Chicago is $12,096 (8.78%). Chicago's median is +6.63% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bolingbrook spans $119,475,Chicago spans $95,650. Bolingbrook 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, Chicago ($144,738 effective) pays 1.96% more than Bolingbrook ($141,962 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bolingbrook if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($199,425)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,941/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,738)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bolingbrook grew 1.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.8% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Bolingbrook, IL
$132,344 (2024) → $133,882 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$115,780 (2019) → $145,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bolingbrook, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bolingbrook or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bolingbrook and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Bolingbrook to Chicago 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