Brownsburg vs Fort Wayne: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Brownsburg, IN and Fort Wayne, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Brownsburg, IN | Fort Wayne, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,419 | $133,220▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $63.19 | $64.05▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,223 | $85,426▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,488▲ | $95,444 |
| 75th Percentile | $155,503 | $166,610▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,669▲ | $183,784 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Fort Wayne, IN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Brownsburg.
The salary gap between Brownsburg and Fort Wayne is $1,801 (1.37%). Fort Wayne's median is -5.26% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Brownsburg spans $109,446,Fort Wayne spans $98,358. Brownsburg 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, Brownsburg ($143,942 effective) pays 0.02% more than Fort Wayne ($143,910 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Brownsburg if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,669)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,942)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Wayne if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($133,220/year)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Brownsburg grew 13.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.4% growth in Fort Wayne over the same period.
Brownsburg, IN
$112,362 (2024) → $127,641 (2025)
Fort Wayne, IN
$112,090 (2019) → $129,390 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Brownsburg, IN
Fort Wayne, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Brownsburg or Fort Wayne?
What is the hourly rate difference between Brownsburg and Fort Wayne?
Should I relocate from Brownsburg to Fort Wayne as a optometrist?
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Related Comparisons
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