Orlando vs Tampa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Orlando, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Orlando, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $164,829▲ | $142,219 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.25▲ | $68.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,154▲ | $86,136 |
| 25th Percentile | $129,256▲ | $127,588 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,010 | $169,081▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $199,434 | $213,076▲ |
| Total Employed | 290 | 350▲ |
Verdict
Orlando and Tampa are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Orlando and Tampa is $22,610 (15.90%). 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 Orlando spans $111,280,Tampa spans $126,940. Tampa 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, Orlando ($162,524 effective) pays 15.29% 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 Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,829/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,524)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,076)
- ✓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 Orlando grew 36.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 52.2% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Orlando, FL
$117,570 (2019) → $160,090 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$90,770 (2019) → $138,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Orlando or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Orlando and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Orlando to Tampa as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Orlando vs 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