Melbourne vs Miami: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Melbourne, FL and Miami, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Melbourne, FL | Miami, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,449▲ | $129,246 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.40▲ | $62.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,941▲ | $60,139 |
| 25th Percentile | $116,281▲ | $107,264 |
| 75th Percentile | $175,329 | $176,401▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $212,834▲ | $200,463 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 820▲ |
Verdict
Melbourne, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Miami.
The salary gap between Melbourne and Miami is $17,203 (13.31%). Melbourne's median is +4.15% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Melbourne spans $127,893,Miami spans $140,324. Miami 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, Melbourne ($145,287 effective) pays 28.32% more than Miami ($113,220 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Melbourne if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,449/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($212,834)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,287)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Miami if…
- ✓Larger job market (820 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Melbourne grew 7.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 77.5% growth in Miami over the same period.
Melbourne, FL
$132,724 (2024) → $142,239 (2025)
Miami, FL
$70,730 (2019) → $125,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Melbourne, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Melbourne or Miami?
What is the hourly rate difference between Melbourne and Miami?
Should I relocate from Melbourne to Miami as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Melbourne vs Miami?
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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