Lansing vs Waterford: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lansing, MI and Waterford, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lansing, MI | Waterford, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,579▲ | $134,405 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.70▲ | $64.62 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,335 | $77,955▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $130,872▲ | $108,756 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,657 | $162,948▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,332▲ | $198,727 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Lansing, MI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterford.
The salary gap between Lansing and Waterford is $174 (0.13%). Lansing's median is -4.29% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lansing spans $137,997,Waterford spans $120,772. Lansing 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, Waterford ($144,211 effective) pays 1.79% 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 Lansing if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,579/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($214,332)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Waterford if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,211)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lansing grew 15.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.4% growth in Waterford over the same period.
Lansing, MI
$112,800 (2019) → $130,710 (2025)
Waterford, MI
$118,236 (2024) → $130,541 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lansing, MI
Waterford, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
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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