Healthcare Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Optometrist Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median optometrist salary in Chicago, IL is $136,893 per year, which is 9.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$136,893
vs State Avg
+$15,071
vs National
+$11,303
Cost of Living
107%

Optometrist Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level optometrist earns around $89,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $194,020 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$89,380
+$7,380 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$139,520
+$11,520 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$194,020
+$16,020 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $85,020
25th Percentile $109,000
Median (50th) $136,893
75th Percentile $172,220
90th Percentile $209,280

Optometrist Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$138,149
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$121,822
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$109,263
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$105,496
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Optometrist in Chicago

Education

Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Eye ExaminationRefractionContact Lens FittingOcular DiseasePatient EducationDiagnostic Equipment

Job Outlook

Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.