Gary vs Indianapolis: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Gary, IN and Indianapolis, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gary, IN | Indianapolis, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,999 | $141,663▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.83 | $68.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,620▲ | $73,205 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,417▲ | $103,907 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,674 | $170,028▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $212,304 | $221,663▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 340▲ |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gary.
The salary gap between Gary and Indianapolis is $2,664 (1.92%). Indianapolis's median is +0.75% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gary spans $131,684,Indianapolis spans $148,458. Indianapolis 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, Gary ($152,244 effective) pays 2.84% more than Indianapolis ($148,034 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gary if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $152,244)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,663/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,663)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Gary grew 13.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 67.6% growth in Indianapolis over the same period.
Gary, IN
$118,843 (2024) → $135,003 (2025)
Indianapolis, IN
$82,100 (2019) → $137,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Gary or Indianapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gary and Indianapolis?
Should I relocate from Gary to Indianapolis as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Gary vs Indianapolis?
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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