Davenport vs Mason City: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Davenport, IA and Mason City, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Davenport, IA | Mason City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,705▲ | $120,346 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.80▲ | $57.86 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,293 | $69,801▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,278 | $97,455▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $160,576▲ | $142,321 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $190,301▲ | $170,342 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Davenport, IA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Mason City.
The salary gap between Davenport and Mason City is $12,359 (10.27%). Davenport's median is -5.62% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Davenport spans $122,008,Mason City spans $100,541. Davenport 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, Davenport ($148,975 effective) pays 11.90% more than Mason City ($133,126 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Davenport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,705/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($190,301)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,975)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Mason City if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Davenport grew 19.1% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Mason City over the same period.
Davenport, IA
$108,250 (2020) → $128,890 (2025)
Mason City, IA
$109,551 (2024) → $116,886 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Davenport, IA
Mason City, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Davenport or Mason City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Davenport and Mason City?
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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