Flint vs Grand Rapids: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Flint, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Flint, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,997 | $138,399▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.35 | $66.54▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $99,634 | $100,757▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $128,010 | $128,278▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,365 | $170,924▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $231,753 | $244,221▲ |
| Total Employed | 70 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Flint.
The salary gap between Flint and Grand Rapids is $402 (0.29%). Grand Rapids's median is -1.57% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Flint spans $132,119,Grand Rapids spans $143,464. Grand Rapids 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, Flint ($148,330 effective) pays 2.40% more than Grand Rapids ($144,851 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Flint if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,330)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,399/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($244,221)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Flint grew 23.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.4% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Flint, MI
$108,230 (2019) → $134,030 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$125,160 (2019) → $134,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Flint or Grand Rapids?
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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