Chicago vs Normal: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chicago, IL and Normal, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $149,941▲ | $132,374 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.08▲ | $63.64 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $96,113▲ | $76,776 |
| 25th Percentile | $136,000▲ | $103,198 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,403▲ | $159,469 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $191,763 | $194,029▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,160▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Normal.
The salary gap between Chicago and Normal is $17,567 (13.27%). 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 Chicago spans $95,650,Normal spans $117,253. Normal has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Chicago ($144,738 effective) pays 6.17% more than Normal ($136,327 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Normal if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($194,029)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Chicago grew 25.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Normal over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$115,780 (2019) → $145,630 (2025)
Normal, IL
$127,090 (2024) → $128,568 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Normal, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Chicago or Normal?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Normal?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Normal as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Chicago vs Normal?
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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