Miami vs Sebastian: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Miami, FL and Sebastian, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Miami, FL | Sebastian, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,246 | $157,923▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.14 | $75.92▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,139 | $93,245▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $107,264 | $130,194▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $176,401 | $192,403▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $200,463 | $232,795▲ |
| Total Employed | 820▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Sebastian, FL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Miami.
The salary gap between Miami and Sebastian is $28,677 (22.19%). Sebastian's median is +12.31% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Miami spans $140,324,Sebastian spans $139,550. Miami 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, Sebastian ($156,670 effective) pays 38.38% 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 Miami if…
- ✓Larger job market (820 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Sebastian if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($157,923/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($232,795)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,670)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Miami grew 77.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Sebastian over the same period.
Miami, FL
$70,730 (2019) → $125,530 (2025)
Sebastian, FL
$127,907 (2024) → $153,383 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sebastian, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Miami or Sebastian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Miami and Sebastian?
Should I relocate from Miami to Sebastian as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Miami vs Sebastian?
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