Tampa vs Palm Bay: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Tampa, FL and Palm Bay, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Palm Bay, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,219 | $143,145▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.38 | $68.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,136▲ | $62,064 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,588▲ | $100,860 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,081▲ | $167,331 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,076▲ | $175,712 |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 60 |
Verdict
Tampa and Palm Bay are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Tampa and Palm Bay is $926 (0.65%). Palm Bay's median is +1.80% 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,Palm Bay spans $113,648. 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, Palm Bay ($143,138 effective) pays 1.54% 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…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,076)
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Palm Bay if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,145/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,138)
- ✓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 44.9% growth in Palm Bay over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$90,770 (2019) → $138,130 (2025)
Palm Bay, FL
$95,970 (2021) → $139,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Palm Bay, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Tampa or Palm Bay?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Palm Bay?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Palm Bay 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