La Crosse vs Madison: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between La Crosse, WI and Madison, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | La Crosse, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $181,014▲ | $132,015 |
| Hourly Rate | $87.02▲ | $63.47 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $113,802▲ | $105,225 |
| 25th Percentile | $134,919▲ | $126,116 |
| 75th Percentile | $202,811▲ | $169,174 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $230,775▲ | $202,502 |
| Total Employed | 40 | 100▲ |
Verdict
La Crosse, WI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Madison.
The salary gap between La Crosse and Madison is $48,999 (37.12%). La Crosse's median is +28.73% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in La Crosse spans $116,973,Madison spans $97,277. La Crosse 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, La Crosse ($197,250 effective) pays 45.36% more than Madison ($135,696 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose La Crosse if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($181,014/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($230,775)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $197,250)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in La Crosse grew 22.3% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 35.3% growth in Madison over the same period.
La Crosse, WI
$143,810 (2022) → $175,810 (2025)
Madison, WI
$94,800 (2019) → $128,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
La Crosse, WI
Madison, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: La Crosse or Madison?
What is the hourly rate difference between La Crosse and Madison?
Should I relocate from La Crosse to Madison as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in La Crosse vs Madison?
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