Madison vs Waukesha: Chiropractor Salary (2026)
Compare chiropractor salaries between Madison, WI and Waukesha, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $84,921▲ | $77,674 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.82▲ | $37.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,914▲ | $45,051 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,040▲ | $57,388 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,200▲ | $99,423 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $169,740▲ | $120,394 |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for chiropractors, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waukesha.
The salary gap between Madison and Waukesha is $7,247 (9.33%). Madison's median is +4.82% compared to the US national median of $81,014.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $108,826,Waukesha spans $75,343. Madison 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, Madison ($87,289 effective) pays 4.96% more than Waukesha ($83,163 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,921/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($169,740)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,289)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Waukesha if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, chiropractor salaries in Madison grew 29.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.4% growth in Waukesha over the same period.
Madison, WI
$63,920 (2019) → $83,020 (2025)
Waukesha, WI
$74,905 (2024) → $75,935 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Waukesha, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays chiropractors more: Madison or Waukesha?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and Waukesha?
Should I relocate from Madison to Waukesha as a chiropractor?
What do entry-level chiropractors earn in Madison vs Waukesha?
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