Pensacola vs Tampa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Pensacola, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pensacola, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $158,610▲ | $142,219 |
| Hourly Rate | $76.25▲ | $68.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,050 | $86,136▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $118,620 | $127,588▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $162,553 | $169,081▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,056 | $213,076▲ |
| Total Employed | 70 | 350▲ |
Verdict
Pensacola and Tampa are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Pensacola and Tampa is $16,391 (11.53%). Pensacola's median is +12.80% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pensacola spans $107,006,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, Pensacola ($162,316 effective) pays 15.15% 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 Pensacola if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($158,610/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,316)
- ✓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 Pensacola grew 24.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 52.2% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Pensacola, FL
$123,370 (2019) → $154,050 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$90,770 (2019) → $138,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pensacola, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Pensacola or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pensacola and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Pensacola to Tampa as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Pensacola 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