Lincoln vs Papillion: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lincoln, NE and Papillion, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lincoln, NE | Papillion, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,255▲ | $119,679 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.62▲ | $57.53 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $56,793 | $73,228▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,418 | $100,452▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $147,552▲ | $141,209 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $199,619▲ | $167,201 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Lincoln, NE offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Papillion.
The salary gap between Lincoln and Papillion is $10,576 (8.84%). Lincoln's median is -7.37% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lincoln spans $142,826,Papillion spans $93,973. Lincoln 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, Lincoln ($142,229 effective) pays 8.74% more than Papillion ($130,797 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lincoln if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($130,255/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($199,619)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,229)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Papillion if…
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lincoln grew 49.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Papillion over the same period.
Lincoln, NE
$84,450 (2019) → $126,510 (2025)
Papillion, NE
$108,943 (2024) → $116,238 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lincoln, NE
Papillion, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lincoln or Papillion?
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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