Carbondale vs Chicago: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carbondale, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $127,886 | $149,941▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $61.49 | $72.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,608 | $96,113▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,454 | $136,000▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $152,010 | $167,403▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $180,012 | $191,763▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 1,160▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Carbondale.
The salary gap between Carbondale and Chicago is $22,055 (17.25%). 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 Carbondale spans $100,404,Chicago spans $95,650. Carbondale 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 9.89% more than Carbondale ($131,705 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carbondale if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,941/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($191,763)
- ✓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 Carbondale grew 56.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 25.8% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Carbondale, IL
$79,620 (2019) → $124,209 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$115,780 (2019) → $145,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carbondale, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Carbondale or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carbondale and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Carbondale to Chicago as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Carbondale vs Chicago?
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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