Rockford vs Waukegan: Chiropractor Salary (2026)
Compare chiropractor salaries between Rockford, IL and Waukegan, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rockford, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $75,889▲ | $72,854 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.49▲ | $35.02 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,743 | $42,255▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $42,328 | $53,736▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,119▲ | $93,253 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $152,289▲ | $112,924 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for chiropractors, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waukegan.
The salary gap between Rockford and Waukegan is $3,035 (4.17%). Rockford's median is -6.33% compared to the US national median of $81,014.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rockford spans $119,546,Waukegan spans $70,669. Rockford 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, Rockford ($82,350 effective) pays 9.76% more than Waukegan ($75,030 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($75,889/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($152,289)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $82,350)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Waukegan if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, chiropractor salaries in Rockford grew 12.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -13.8% growth in Waukegan over the same period.
Rockford, IL
$65,940 (2019) → $74,190 (2025)
Waukegan, IL
$82,654 (2024) → $71,223 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rockford, IL
Waukegan, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays chiropractors more: Rockford or Waukegan?
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Related Comparisons
Written by Maria Gonzalez, D.C.
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience as a chiropractor. She specializes in sports injuries and practices in a private clinic. Maria also conducts workshops for community health education.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.29% 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 Maria Gonzalez, D.C., a licensed chiropractor with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov