Orlando vs Panama City: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Orlando, FL and Panama City, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Orlando, FL | Panama City, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,804▲ | $137,355 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.21▲ | $66.04 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,901 | $80,410▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $100,356 | $107,684▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $173,973▲ | $171,246 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $217,147▲ | $212,900 |
| Total Employed | 570▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Panama City.
The salary gap between Orlando and Panama City is $2,449 (1.78%). 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 Orlando spans $151,246,Panama City spans $132,490. Orlando has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Orlando ($137,849 effective) pays 1.16% more than Panama City ($136,265 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Panama City if…
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Orlando grew 46.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 33.3% growth in Panama City over the same period.
Orlando, FL
$90,730 (2019) → $132,440 (2025)
Panama City, FL
$97,650 (2020) → $130,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Panama City, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Orlando or Panama City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Orlando and Panama City?
Should I relocate from Orlando to Panama City as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Orlando vs Panama City?
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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