Tampa vs Jacksonville: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Tampa, FL and Jacksonville, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,219 | $166,342▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.38 | $79.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,136 | $103,310▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $127,588 | $130,080▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $169,081▲ | $168,865 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,076 | $216,721▲ |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 150 |
Verdict
Jacksonville, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Tampa and Jacksonville is $24,123 (16.96%). Jacksonville's median is +18.30% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tampa spans $126,940,Jacksonville spans $113,411. Tampa 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, Jacksonville ($167,205 effective) pays 18.61% 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 Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Jacksonville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($166,342/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,721)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,205)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Tampa grew 52.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 106.4% growth in Jacksonville over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$90,770 (2019) → $138,130 (2025)
Jacksonville, FL
$78,260 (2019) → $161,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jacksonville, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Tampa or Jacksonville?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Jacksonville?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Jacksonville as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Tampa vs Jacksonville?
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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