Peoria vs Rockford: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Peoria, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Peoria, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $171,531▲ | $135,423 |
| Hourly Rate | $82.47▲ | $65.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $132,201▲ | $78,545 |
| 25th Percentile | $138,615▲ | $107,908 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,426▲ | $168,311 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,431▲ | $207,907 |
| Total Employed | 50▲ | 34 |
Verdict
Peoria, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rockford.
The salary gap between Peoria and Rockford is $36,108 (26.66%). Peoria's median is +21.99% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Peoria spans $77,230,Rockford spans $129,362. Rockford 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, Peoria ($188,018 effective) pays 34.81% more than Rockford ($139,468 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Peoria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($171,531/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,431)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $188,018)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Peoria grew 37.6% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 3.4% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Peoria, IL
$121,070 (2021) → $166,600 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$127,240 (2021) → $131,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Peoria, IL
Rockford, IL
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