Kalamazoo vs Lansing: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Kalamazoo, MI and Lansing, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kalamazoo, MI | Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,670▲ | $134,579 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.23▲ | $64.70 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $106,986▲ | $76,335 |
| 25th Percentile | $130,090 | $130,872▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $162,450▲ | $161,657 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $169,596 | $214,332▲ |
| Total Employed | 70 | 70 |
Verdict
Kalamazoo, MI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 2 out of 4 metrics compared to Lansing.
The salary gap between Kalamazoo and Lansing is $1,091 (0.81%). Kalamazoo's median is -3.51% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kalamazoo spans $62,610,Lansing spans $137,997. Lansing 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, Kalamazoo ($143,051 effective) pays 0.97% more than Lansing ($141,676 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kalamazoo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,670/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,051)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($214,332)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Kalamazoo grew 44.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.9% growth in Lansing over the same period.
Kalamazoo, MI
$91,270 (2019) → $131,770 (2025)
Lansing, MI
$112,800 (2019) → $130,710 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kalamazoo, MI
Lansing, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Kalamazoo or Lansing?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kalamazoo and Lansing?
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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