Duluth vs Minnetonka: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Duluth, MN and Minnetonka, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Duluth, MN | Minnetonka, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,680▲ | $136,849 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.15▲ | $65.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,014▲ | $79,373 |
| 25th Percentile | $115,491▲ | $112,757 |
| 75th Percentile | $166,486 | $167,934▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,767 | $205,714▲ |
| Total Employed | 15▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Minnetonka.
The salary gap between Duluth and Minnetonka is $2,831 (2.07%). Duluth's median is -0.66% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $120,753,Minnetonka spans $126,341. Minnetonka 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, Duluth ($141,807 effective) pays 2.07% more than Minnetonka ($138,933 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,680/year)
- ✓Larger job market (15 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,807)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minnetonka if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($205,714)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Duluth grew 16.0% from 2023 to 2025, compared to -1.0% growth in Minnetonka over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$116,930 (2023) → $135,664 (2025)
Minnetonka, MN
$134,307 (2024) → $132,915 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Minnetonka, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Duluth or Minnetonka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Duluth and Minnetonka?
Should I relocate from Duluth to Minnetonka as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Duluth vs Minnetonka?
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