Optometrist Salary in Illinois
The median optometrist salary in Illinois is $121,822 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #23 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for optometrist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $121,822 per year, optometrists in Illinois earn $3,768 less than the national median of $125,590.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning optometrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $75,660, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $186,240 — a $110,580 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $138,149.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level optometrist earns around $79,540, while experienced professionals earn up to $172,660 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $75,660 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,000 |
| Median (50th) | $121,822 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,260 |
| 90th Percentile | $186,240 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Illinois
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $50,838 over your career trajectory.
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