Key West vs Orlando: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Key West, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Key West, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,452 | $139,804▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.61 | $67.21▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,143▲ | $65,901 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,859▲ | $100,356 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,771 | $173,973▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,501 | $217,147▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 570▲ |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Key West.
The salary gap between Key West and Orlando is $3,352 (2.46%). 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 Key West spans $132,358,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 1.83% more than Key West ($135,369 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Key West 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 Key West grew 20.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 46.0% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Key West, FL
$107,267 (2024) → $129,265 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$90,730 (2019) → $132,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Key West, FL
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Key West or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Key West and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Key West to Orlando as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Key West vs Orlando?
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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