Rapid City vs Vermillion: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Rapid City, SD and Vermillion, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rapid City, SD | Vermillion, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,000▲ | $120,525 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.46▲ | $57.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,560▲ | $72,318 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,605▲ | $100,123 |
| 75th Percentile | $160,716▲ | $143,789 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $196,312▲ | $166,805 |
| Total Employed | 16▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Rapid City, SD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Vermillion.
The salary gap between Rapid City and Vermillion is $11,475 (9.52%). Rapid City's median is -6.12% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rapid City spans $119,752,Vermillion spans $94,487. Rapid City 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, Rapid City ($142,241 effective) pays 9.52% more than Vermillion ($129,876 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rapid City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,000/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($196,312)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,241)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Vermillion if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Rapid City grew 37.1% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 9.3% growth in Vermillion over the same period.
Rapid City, SD
$93,480 (2023) → $128,205 (2025)
Vermillion, SD
$107,143 (2024) → $117,060 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rapid City, SD
Vermillion, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Rapid City or Vermillion?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rapid City and Vermillion?
Should I relocate from Rapid City to Vermillion as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Rapid City vs Vermillion?
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