Fort Myers vs Orlando: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Fort Myers, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Myers, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $167,978▲ | $164,829 |
| Hourly Rate | $80.76▲ | $79.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,427▲ | $88,154 |
| 25th Percentile | $137,131▲ | $129,256 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,457▲ | $168,010 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $256,511▲ | $199,434 |
| Total Employed | 23 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Fort Myers, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Orlando.
The salary gap between Fort Myers and Orlando is $3,149 (1.91%). Fort Myers's median is +19.46% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Myers spans $159,084,Orlando spans $111,280. Fort Myers 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, Fort Myers ($166,645 effective) pays 2.54% more than Orlando ($162,524 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Myers if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($167,978/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($256,511)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $166,645)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Fort Myers grew 24.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.2% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Fort Myers, FL
$131,022 (2024) → $163,149 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$117,570 (2019) → $160,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Myers, FL
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Fort Myers or Orlando?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% 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 Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov