How to Become a Veterinarians in Florida
Veterinarians in Florida earn a median salary of $131,170/year, which is 5% above the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a veterinarians takes home approximately $6,955/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a veterinarians can afford in Florida
Becoming a veterinarians in Florida
Meet education requirements
Veterinarians 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 veterinarians 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 veterinarianss. 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 5,480 veterinarians. The highest concentrations are in Tallahassee and North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota.
Veterinarians salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tallahassee | $136K | $65.27/hr | 160 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $134K | $64.42/hr | 200 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $133K | $63.81/hr | 940 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $133K | $63.8/hr | 140 |
| Port St. Lucie | $132K | $63.43/hr | 120 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $132K | $63.36/hr | 1,260 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $132K | $63.32/hr | 180 |
| Naples-Marco Island | $132K | $63.3/hr | 90 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $132K | $63.24/hr | 580 |
| Jacksonville | $131K | $63.05/hr | 490 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $130K | $62.59/hr | 150 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $130K | $62.33/hr | 160 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $129K | $62.2/hr | 130 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $128K | $61.57/hr | 140 |
| Punta Gorda | $126K | $60.66/hr | 40 |
Veterinarians salary range in Florida
Veterinarians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinarians make in Florida?▼
The median veterinarians salary in Florida is $131,170 per year ($63.06/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $125,510. Salaries range from $58,460 to $213,190.
What are the requirements to become a veterinarians in Florida?▼
Veterinarians 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 veterinarians afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $131,170, a veterinarians in Florida would take home approximately $8,367/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 16.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinarians in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinarians in Florida are Tallahassee ($135,760), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($134,000), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater ($132,730). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for veterinarians?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means veterinarians keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.