Crystal Lake vs Peoria: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Crystal Lake, IL and Peoria, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Crystal Lake, IL | Peoria, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,017 | $171,531▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.51 | $82.47▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,412 | $132,201▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $106,186 | $138,615▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $157,433 | $173,426▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $190,064 | $209,431▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Peoria, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Crystal Lake.
The salary gap between Crystal Lake and Peoria is $41,514 (31.93%). Peoria's median is +21.99% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Crystal Lake spans $114,652,Peoria spans $77,230. Crystal Lake 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, Peoria ($188,018 effective) pays 40.42% more than Crystal Lake ($133,900 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Crystal Lake if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Peoria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($171,531/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,431)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $188,018)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Crystal Lake grew 1.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.6% growth in Peoria over the same period.
Crystal Lake, IL
$124,828 (2024) → $126,279 (2025)
Peoria, IL
$121,070 (2021) → $166,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Crystal Lake, IL
Peoria, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Crystal Lake or Peoria?
What is the hourly rate difference between Crystal Lake and Peoria?
Should I relocate from Crystal Lake to Peoria as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Crystal Lake vs Peoria?
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