Idaho Falls vs Rexburg: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Idaho Falls, ID and Rexburg, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Idaho Falls, ID | Rexburg, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,587▲ | $132,744 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.18▲ | $63.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,641▲ | $76,991 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,487▲ | $106,719 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,122▲ | $156,431 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,712▲ | $186,326 |
| Total Employed | 9▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Idaho Falls, ID offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rexburg.
The salary gap between Idaho Falls and Rexburg is $2,843 (2.14%). Idaho Falls's median is -3.57% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Idaho Falls spans $123,071,Rexburg spans $109,335. Idaho Falls 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, Idaho Falls ($142,274 effective) pays 2.14% more than Rexburg ($139,291 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,587/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,712)
- ✓Larger job market (9 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,274)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Rexburg if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Idaho Falls grew 5.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 5.1% growth in Rexburg over the same period.
Idaho Falls, ID
$125,354 (2024) → $131,689 (2025)
Rexburg, ID
$122,726 (2024) → $128,928 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Idaho Falls, ID
Rexburg, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Idaho Falls or Rexburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Idaho Falls and Rexburg?
Should I relocate from Idaho Falls to Rexburg as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Idaho Falls vs Rexburg?
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