Indianapolis vs Merrillville: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Indianapolis, IN and Merrillville, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | Merrillville, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,663▲ | $133,164 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.11▲ | $64.02 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,205 | $77,235▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,907 | $106,965▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $170,028▲ | $159,708 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,663▲ | $191,482 |
| Total Employed | 340▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Merrillville.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and Merrillville is $8,499 (6.38%). 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 Indianapolis spans $148,458,Merrillville spans $114,247. Indianapolis 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, Indianapolis ($148,034 effective) pays 1.50% more than Merrillville ($145,853 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,663/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,663)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,034)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Merrillville if…
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Indianapolis grew 67.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.6% growth in Merrillville over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$82,100 (2019) → $137,590 (2025)
Merrillville, IN
$113,854 (2024) → $129,336 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Merrillville, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Indianapolis or Merrillville?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and Merrillville?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to Merrillville as a optometrist?
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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