Key West vs Tampa: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Key West, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Key West, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,452 | $138,484▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.61 | $66.58▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,143▲ | $65,869 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,859▲ | $81,682 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,771 | $175,926▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,501 | $219,480▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 1,060▲ |
Verdict
Tampa, FL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Key West.
The salary gap between Key West and Tampa is $2,032 (1.49%). Tampa's median is +0.84% 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,Tampa spans $153,611. Tampa 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, Tampa ($137,262 effective) pays 1.40% 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 Tampa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,484/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($219,480)
- ✓Larger job market (1,060 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,262)
- ✓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 58.9% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Key West, FL
$107,267 (2024) → $129,265 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$82,560 (2019) → $131,190 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Key West, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Key West or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Key West and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Key West to Tampa as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Key West vs Tampa?
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