North Miami Beach vs Tampa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between North Miami Beach, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Miami Beach, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $153,693▲ | $142,219 |
| Hourly Rate | $73.89▲ | $68.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $89,142▲ | $86,136 |
| 25th Percentile | $125,073 | $127,588▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $185,666▲ | $169,081 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $223,959▲ | $213,076 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 350▲ |
Verdict
North Miami Beach, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between North Miami Beach and Tampa is $11,474 (8.07%). North Miami Beach's median is +9.30% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in North Miami Beach spans $134,817,Tampa spans $126,940. North Miami Beach 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, North Miami Beach ($152,473 effective) pays 8.16% more than Tampa ($140,964 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose North Miami Beach if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($153,693/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($223,959)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $152,473)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in North Miami Beach grew 19.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 52.2% growth in Tampa over the same period.
North Miami Beach, FL
$124,480 (2024) → $149,274 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$90,770 (2019) → $138,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
North Miami Beach, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: North Miami Beach or Tampa?
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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