Brookfield vs Madison: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Brookfield, WI and Madison, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Brookfield, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,527▲ | $132,015 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.96▲ | $63.47 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,406 | $105,225▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $121,264 | $126,116▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $169,953▲ | $169,174 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $202,461 | $202,502▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Brookfield and Madison are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Brookfield and Madison is $13,512 (10.24%). Brookfield's median is +3.50% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Brookfield spans $118,055,Madison spans $97,277. Brookfield 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, Brookfield ($155,810 effective) pays 14.82% more than Madison ($135,696 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Brookfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,527/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,810)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,502)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Brookfield grew 18.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.3% growth in Madison over the same period.
Brookfield, WI
$119,374 (2024) → $141,343 (2025)
Madison, WI
$94,800 (2019) → $128,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Brookfield, WI
Madison, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Brookfield or Madison?
What is the hourly rate difference between Brookfield and Madison?
Should I relocate from Brookfield to Madison as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Brookfield vs Madison?
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