Cape Coral vs Tampa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Cape Coral, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cape Coral, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $166,322▲ | $142,219 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.97▲ | $68.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $103,742▲ | $86,136 |
| 25th Percentile | $131,603▲ | $127,588 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,008▲ | $169,081 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $190,672 | $213,076▲ |
| Total Employed | 80 | 350▲ |
Verdict
Cape Coral and Tampa are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cape Coral and Tampa is $24,103 (16.95%). Cape Coral's median is +18.28% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cape Coral spans $86,930,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, Cape Coral ($162,505 effective) pays 15.28% 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 Cape Coral if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($166,322/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,505)
- ✓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 Cape Coral grew 120.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 52.2% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Cape Coral, FL
$73,190 (2019) → $161,540 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$90,770 (2019) → $138,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cape Coral, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Cape Coral or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cape Coral and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Cape Coral to Tampa as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Cape Coral vs Tampa?
Related Comparisons
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