Indianapolis vs Terre Haute: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Indianapolis, IN and Terre Haute, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | Terre Haute, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,663▲ | $140,198 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.11▲ | $67.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,205 | $81,315▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,907 | $110,819▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $170,028 | $170,414▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,663▲ | $202,918 |
| Total Employed | 340▲ | 13 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Terre Haute.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and Terre Haute is $1,465 (1.04%). 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,Terre Haute spans $121,603. 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, Terre Haute ($153,558 effective) pays 3.73% 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 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
Choose Terre Haute if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,558)
- ✓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 Terre Haute over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$82,100 (2019) → $137,590 (2025)
Terre Haute, IN
$119,867 (2024) → $136,167 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Terre Haute, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Indianapolis or Terre Haute?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and Terre Haute?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to Terre Haute as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Indianapolis vs Terre Haute?
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