How to Become a Optometrists in Florida
Optometrists in Florida earn a median salary of $129,500/year, which is 4% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a optometrists takes home approximately $6,860/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a optometrists can afford in Florida
Becoming a optometrists in Florida
Meet education requirements
Optometrists positions in Florida typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many optometrists positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for optometristss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 2,280 optometrists. The highest concentrations are in Jacksonville and Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford.
Optometrists salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville | $148K | $71.18/hr | 210 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $145K | $69.81/hr | 470 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $137K | $65.92/hr | 60 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $131K | $63.13/hr | 360 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $129K | $62.11/hr | 80 |
| Port St. Lucie | $129K | $62/hr | 40 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $127K | $61.18/hr | 50 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $125K | $60.21/hr | 50 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $122K | $58.83/hr | 50 |
| Naples-Marco Island | $99K | $47.74/hr | 30 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $93K | $44.57/hr | 630 |
Optometrists salary range in Florida
Optometrists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a optometrists make in Florida?▼
The median optometrists salary in Florida is $129,500 per year ($62.26/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $134,830. Salaries range from $52,610 to $205,020.
What are the requirements to become a optometrists in Florida?▼
Optometrists positions in Florida typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a optometrists afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $129,500, a optometrists in Florida would take home approximately $8,272/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for optometrists in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for optometrists in Florida are Jacksonville ($148,040), Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford ($145,210), Lakeland-Winter Haven ($137,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for optometrists?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means optometrists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.