HealthcareOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Optometrist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$157,431/yr
Typical range: $137,661 – $198,097
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Optometrist salary by experience level in Chicago
Optometrist Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $115,596 | $9,633 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $142,018 | $11,835 | +23% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $157,431 | $13,119 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $174,385 | $14,532 | +51% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $211,375 | $17,615 | +83% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $243,082 | $20,257 | +110% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $251,008 | $20,917 | +117% |
Current Salary
$157,431
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$174,385
Senior · 6
+$17Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
37/100
Below Average
+4% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Optometrist salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Optometrists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $157K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Optometrist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $157K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Optometrist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Optometrist in Chicago, IL earns $198K–$233K/yr.