Daytona Beach vs Orlando: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Daytona Beach, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Daytona Beach, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,731 | $139,804▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.73 | $67.21▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,779▲ | $65,901 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,281▲ | $100,356 |
| 75th Percentile | $175,015▲ | $173,973 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,933 | $217,147▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 570▲ |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Daytona Beach.
The salary gap between Daytona Beach and Orlando is $3,073 (2.25%). Orlando's median is +1.80% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Daytona Beach spans $132,154,Orlando spans $151,246. Orlando has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinarians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Orlando ($137,849 effective) pays 1.62% more than Daytona Beach ($135,646 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Daytona Beach if…
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,804/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($217,147)
- ✓Larger job market (570 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,849)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Daytona Beach grew 22.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 46.0% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Daytona Beach, FL
$105,935 (2024) → $129,529 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$90,730 (2019) → $132,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Daytona Beach, FL
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Daytona Beach or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Daytona Beach and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Daytona Beach to Orlando as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Daytona Beach vs Orlando?
Related Comparisons
Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% 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 Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov