Cleveland vs Lima: Insurance Agent Salary (2026)
Compare insurance agent salaries between Cleveland, OH and Lima, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cleveland, OH | Lima, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,613▲ | $54,898 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.87▲ | $26.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,599▲ | $35,255 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,665▲ | $42,735 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,549▲ | $79,327 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $163,419▲ | $98,979 |
| Total Employed | 3,260▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Cleveland, OH offers better overall compensation for insurance agents, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lima.
The salary gap between Cleveland and Lima is $19,715 (35.91%). Cleveland's median is +15.64% compared to the US national median of $64,522.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cleveland spans $114,820,Lima spans $63,724. Cleveland 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, Cleveland ($79,441 effective) pays 29.76% more than Lima ($61,223 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,613/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($163,419)
- ✓Larger job market (3,260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $79,441)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Lima if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, insurance agent salaries in Cleveland grew 37.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.2% growth in Lima over the same period.
Cleveland, OH
$52,210 (2019) → $72,020 (2025)
Lima, OH
$46,830 (2019) → $52,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays insurance agents more: Cleveland or Lima?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cleveland and Lima?
Should I relocate from Cleveland to Lima as a insurance agent?
What do entry-level insurance agents earn in Cleveland vs Lima?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MBA
Career Analyst
Jordan has over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry. He specializes in property and casualty insurance. He has worked in both agency and corporate settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.60% 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 Jordan Lee, MBA, a licensed insurance agent with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov