Springfield vs Wheeling: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Springfield, IL and Wheeling, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Springfield, IL | Wheeling, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,192▲ | $133,281 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.00▲ | $64.08 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,411 | $78,572▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $107,454 | $109,891▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $167,643▲ | $162,495 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $207,441▲ | $196,159 |
| Total Employed | 22▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Springfield, IL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wheeling.
The salary gap between Springfield and Wheeling is $1,911 (1.43%). Springfield's median is -3.85% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Springfield spans $129,030,Wheeling spans $117,587. Springfield 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, Springfield ($139,230 effective) pays 1.43% more than Wheeling ($137,262 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,192/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($207,441)
- ✓Larger job market (22 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,230)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Wheeling if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Springfield grew 1.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Wheeling over the same period.
Springfield, IL
$129,796 (2024) → $131,305 (2025)
Wheeling, IL
$127,961 (2024) → $129,449 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, IL
Wheeling, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Springfield or Wheeling?
What is the hourly rate difference between Springfield and Wheeling?
Should I relocate from Springfield to Wheeling as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Springfield vs Wheeling?
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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