Miami Gardens vs Orlando: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Miami Gardens, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Miami Gardens, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $159,991 | $164,829▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $76.92 | $79.25▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $92,795▲ | $88,154 |
| 25th Percentile | $126,921 | $129,256▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $198,145▲ | $168,010 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $245,075▲ | $199,434 |
| Total Employed | 21 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Miami Gardens.
The salary gap between Miami Gardens and Orlando is $4,838 (3.02%). Orlando's median is +17.22% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Miami Gardens spans $152,280,Orlando spans $111,280. Miami Gardens 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, Orlando ($162,524 effective) pays 2.40% more than Miami Gardens ($158,721 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Miami Gardens if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($245,075)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,829/year)
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,524)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Miami Gardens grew 19.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.2% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Miami Gardens, FL
$129,582 (2024) → $155,391 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$117,570 (2019) → $160,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Miami Gardens, FL
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Miami Gardens or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Miami Gardens and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Miami Gardens to Orlando as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Miami Gardens vs Orlando?
Related Comparisons
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