Milwaukee vs Whitewater: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Milwaukee, WI and Whitewater, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | Whitewater, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,041 | $140,447▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.40 | $67.52▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,251 | $81,459▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $116,983▲ | $112,640 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,463▲ | $160,993 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,179▲ | $201,116 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Milwaukee and Whitewater are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Whitewater is $4,406 (3.24%). Whitewater's median is -0.12% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Milwaukee spans $135,928,Whitewater spans $119,657. Milwaukee 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, Whitewater ($150,372 effective) pays 7.15% more than Milwaukee ($140,340 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,179)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Whitewater if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,447/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,372)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Milwaukee grew 13.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.4% growth in Whitewater over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$116,060 (2019) → $132,130 (2025)
Whitewater, WI
$115,208 (2024) → $136,409 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Whitewater, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Milwaukee or Whitewater?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Whitewater?
Should I relocate from Milwaukee to Whitewater as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Milwaukee vs Whitewater?
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