Ocala vs Orlando: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ocala, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ocala, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $157,405 | $164,829▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $75.68 | $79.25▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,018▲ | $88,154 |
| 25th Percentile | $131,964▲ | $129,256 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,872▲ | $168,010 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $197,199 | $199,434▲ |
| Total Employed | 40 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ocala.
The salary gap between Ocala and Orlando is $7,424 (4.72%). 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 Ocala spans $99,181,Orlando spans $111,280. Orlando has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Ocala ($165,282 effective) pays 1.70% 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 Ocala if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $165,282)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,829/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($199,434)
- ✓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 Ocala grew 18.8% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 36.2% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Ocala, FL
$128,690 (2022) → $152,880 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$117,570 (2019) → $160,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ocala or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ocala and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Ocala to Orlando as a optometrist?
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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