Average Optometrists Salary in Illinois
Optometrists in Illinois earn an average annual salary of $134,250, which is slightly below the national average of $141,560. This difference can often be attributed to a combination of regional demand, the cost of doing business, and the overall economic landscape within the state, influencing compensation levels for specialized healthcare professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $134,250 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 6.3% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $176,130.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,670 Optometrists and a Location Quotient of 1.02, Illinois demonstrates a stable and slightly above-average concentration of these professionals. This indicates a healthy demand for optometric services that closely mirrors national trends, suggesting a robust job market for skilled practitioners in the state.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Illinois earns-5.2%below the national average.
$64.5
$2,582
$11,188
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that Optometrist salaries in Illinois have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, technological advancements in eye care, and inflation likely contribute to a positive trajectory for compensation in this field.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Illinois
The career path for Optometrists typically involves significant salary progression based on experience. Entry-level positions might start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting their expertise and value to employers and patients.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $68,320 | $32.8 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $100,688 | $48.4 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $136,200 | $65.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $167,813 | $80.7 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $176,130 | $84.7 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$134,250
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$146,242
Adjusted for COL (91.8)
An average annual salary of $134,250 in Illinois presents a favorable financial situation when considering the state's Cost of Living Index of 91.8. This index, being below the national average of 100, suggests that the nominal salary offers a strong purchasing power, allowing Optometrists to maintain a good standard of living.
Job Market Context
1,670
Total Jobs
0.276
Per 1K Jobs
1.02
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.02, Illinois has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Optometrists roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.02 for Optometrists in Illinois signifies a job market that is very close to the national average in terms of concentration. This suggests that the demand for Optometrists is well-balanced with the supply, indicating a competitive yet accessible market for both employers seeking talent and professionals seeking opportunities.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Bloomington, IL Optometrists Salary | $118,430↓ 12% | 9 mi |
| Peoria, IL Optometrists Salary | $128,090↓ 5% | 43 mi |
Comparing salaries near Illinois
Hiring Optometristss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Illinois?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Illinois is $134,250. This typically ranges from $68,320 for entry-level positions to $176,130 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Illinois is 5.2% lower than the national median of $141,560.
Is Illinois a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, Illinois offers a competitive environment for Optometrists.While the average salary is slightly below the national average, the lower cost of living enhances purchasing power. The stable job market concentration also indicates consistent demand for the profession.
Is Illinois a good place to live for Optometrists?
With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Illinois?
Some top paying nearby cities include Bloomington, IL ($118,430) and Peoria, IL.
How does the number of Optometrists in Illinois compare nationally?
Illinois has a total local workforce of 1,670 Optometrists, with a concentration (Location Quotient) of 1.02, indicating a presence very close to the national average.
What is the cost of living for Optometrists in Illinois?
The Cost of Living Index in Illinois is 91.8, which is below the national average of 100, making everyday expenses more affordable for residents.
How does experience affect an Optometrist's salary in Illinois?
As with most professions, experience plays a crucial role. Entry-level Optometrists will likely earn less, while those with several years of practice and specialized skills can expect to earn significantly more, moving into higher salary brackets.
Is the job market for Optometrists growing in Illinois?
The stable Location Quotient of 1.02 suggests a consistent demand for Optometrists, implying a healthy and steady job market rather than rapid expansion or contraction.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,670 employees in the Illinois area with a job density of 0.276 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Optometrists Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Illinois
- All Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Management Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Production Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Business and Financial Operations Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Illinois
- Browse All Jobs in Illinois →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Optometrists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Illinois