Florida is well-known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, diverse population, and the extensive list of things to do and see. For doctors, it’s not just a great place to live but also an attractive state to work in due to its competitive salaries and growing healthcare needs. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a new physician, finding the right location to practice is key to professional satisfaction, financial and personal success.

Before we dive into the top five highest-paying cities in Florida, it is important to know why Florida is so attractive to physicians. Florida offers numerous perks for physicians, starting with no state income tax, which can significantly boost take-home pay. The state also boasts a diverse patient population, including retirees, families, and international residents, creating a dynamic healthcare environment. With a high demand for medical services and a lifestyle that combines urban living with outdoor recreation, Florida is an increasingly popular choice for doctors seeking both career advancement and a high quality of life for not only themselves but their families.

Now, let's dive into the top cities in Florida where doctors can expect to earn the highest salaries. We’ll look at average earnings and what makes these locations stand out.

1. Miami Beach

Average Salary

$296,494

Highlights

Miami Beach tops the list with an impressive average salary of nearly $300,000. Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and cultural diversity, it attracts both locals and tourists alike. For doctors, the high cost of living is balanced by the high demand for healthcare services, driven by a diverse and affluent population. With opportunities in private practice, hospital systems, and specialty care, Miami Beach is a lucrative location for medical professionals.

Top Places to Eat

• Joe’s Stone Crab: A Miami Beach institution, famous for stone crab claws and legendary key lime pie.

• Casa Tua: Intimate Italian dining in a cozy villa setting, with a homestyle feel.

• Stubborn Seed: Modern American cuisine, known for an innovative menu crafted by a “Top Chef” winner.

• La Sandwicherie: A local favorite offering fresh sandwiches and smoothies, best known for its Cuban sandwich.

• Carbone: A sophisticated Italian-American restaurant, known for dishes like spicy rigatoni vodka and veal parmesan.

Top Neighborhoods to Live In

• South of Fifth (SoFi): Upscale neighborhood with luxury condos and ocean views. Rent: $3,000–$5,000.

• North Beach: Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and less crowded beaches. Rent: $1,800–$3,000.

• Mid-Beach: A blend of residential and commercial spaces, known for boutique hotels and chic restaurants. Rent: $2,200–$4,000.

• Sunset Harbour: Trendy, waterfront neighborhood with a laid-back atmosphere and walkable streets. Rent: $2,500–$4,500.

Top Things to Do

• Visit the Art Deco Historic District: Iconic pastel-colored buildings along Ocean Drive, showcasing Miami Beach’s architectural heritage.

• Relax at South Beach: World-famous beach with vibrant energy, crystal-clear waters, and soft sands.

• Stroll Down Lincoln Road Mall: A pedestrian-friendly area filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries.

• Explore the Miami Beach Botanical Garden: A serene oasis featuring tropical plants and a Japanese garden.

• Check Out the Bass Museum of Art: Contemporary art exhibitions and cultural programs near Collins Park.

Best Schools for Kids

• North Beach Elementary School: A highly rated public school known for strong academics and community engagement.

• Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K-8 Center: A comprehensive K-8 school with a focus on academic excellence.

• Miami Beach Senior High School: A well-regarded public high school offering advanced placement courses.

• St. Patrick Catholic School: A private, faith-based school from pre-K through 8th grade, emphasizing academic and moral development.

• Fisher Island Day School: An exclusive private school offering personalized attention and a challenging curriculum for pre-K through 8th grade.

2. Miami

Average Salary

$282,443

Highlights

Miami is a dynamic city with a diverse patient population, attracting patients from across the globe. Its healthcare system offers numerous opportunities across specialties, contributing to competitive salaries. In addition to its financial advantages, Miami provides a cosmopolitan lifestyle with vibrant cultural, dining, and entertainment options, making it a top choice for medical professionals.

Top Places to Eat

• Zuma: Stylish Japanese restaurant with modern izakaya dining.

• Mandolin Aegean Bistro: Mediterranean dishes in a charming outdoor setting.

• La Mar by Gastón Acurio: Modern Peruvian cuisine with stunning views.

• Ariete: Creative dishes with Cuban and Floridian influences.

• CVI.CHE 105: Famous for its diverse menu of Peruvian ceviches.

Top Neighborhoods to Live In

• Brickell: High-rise urban living with vibrant nightlife. Rent: $2,500–$4,500.

• Coral Gables: Mediterranean architecture, upscale dining. Rent: $2,200–$3,500.

• Wynwood: Artsy, eclectic neighborhood with vibrant street art. Rent: $1,800–$3,000.

• Coconut Grove: Family-friendly, lush greenery. Rent: $2,200–$4,000.

Top Things to Do

• Pérez Art Museum Miami: Contemporary art and waterfront views.

• Little Havana: Cuban culture, lively music, and authentic restaurants.

• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Historic estate with European-inspired gardens.

• Brickell City Centre: Modern shopping and dining destination.

• Boat Tour of Biscayne Bay: Scenic tour along Miami’s coast.

Best Schools for Kids

• Ransom Everglades School: Top-rated private school.

• Gulliver Preparatory School: Private education, pre-K through 12th grade.

• Coconut Grove Elementary School: Highly regarded public elementary.

• Sunset Elementary School: Known for its International Studies Program.

• Miami Country Day School: Independent, holistic education from pre-K through 12th grade.

3. Port St. Lucie

Average Salary

$278,202

Highlights

Port St. Lucie is a rapidly growing city, offering a suburban lifestyle and significant earning potential for doctors. The expanding healthcare sector and growing retiree population create numerous opportunities, while the lower cost of living compared to metropolitan areas allows physicians to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with a substantial salary.

Top Places to Eat

• Fernando’s Dockside Grille: Portuguese and Mediterranean-inspired dishes with river views.

• Berry Fresh Café: Fresh, farm-to-table breakfast and brunch spot.

• Ristorante Corleone: Authentic Italian dishes in a relaxed setting.

• Tutto Fresco: Italian-American cuisine with an extensive wine list.

• The Tin Fish: Laid-back seafood restaurant with fresh catches.

Top Neighborhoods to Live In

• Tradition: Master-planned community with parks, shopping, and dining. Rent: $1,500–$2,500.

• St. Lucie West: Bustling suburban area with golf courses and family-friendly amenities. Rent: $1,400–$2,200.

• Torino: Family-oriented with spacious homes and easy highway access. Rent: $1,300–$2,000.

• River Park: Affordable, suburban area with a relaxed lifestyle. Rent: $1,200–$1,800.

Top Things to Do

• Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens: Native plants and butterfly garden.

• PGA Golf Club: World-class golf courses and museum.

• River Boat Cruise: Scenic tour along the St. Lucie River.

• Savannas Preserve State Park: Hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching.

• Port St. Lucie Civic Center: Hub for community events and outdoor concerts.

  
  

Best Schools for Kids

• Tradition Preparatory High School: College-preparatory charter school.

• St. Lucie West Centennial High School: Public school with advanced placement courses.

• Manatee Academy K-8: Well-regarded public school with strong academics.

• Somerset College Preparatory Academy: Public charter school with leadership focus.

• Renaissance Charter School at Tradition: Highly regarded public charter school offering K-8 education.

4. Tampa

Average Salary

$275,080

Highlights

Tampa boasts a robust medical community with a blend of urban and suburban living, enhanced by proximity to the Gulf Coast’s beautiful beaches. Major healthcare systems, teaching hospitals, and research institutions drive a high demand for physicians and offer competitive salaries. With a growing economy and diverse population, Tampa provides opportunities for doctors across various specialties. The city’s emphasis on work-life balance and outdoor activities makes it an attractive place for healthcare professionals to live and work.

Top Places to Eat

• Bern’s Steak House: Known for its extensive wine list, perfectly aged steaks, and elaborate dessert room.

• Ulele: Waterfront dining with Native American-inspired cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.

• Oxford Exchange: Stylish spot offering breakfast, lunch, and brunch in a beautifully restored historic building.

• Columbia Restaurant: Florida’s oldest restaurant, serving traditional Spanish and Cuban dishes.

• Haven: A contemporary American restaurant offering a sophisticated menu of charcuterie, cheeses, and fine wines.

Top Neighborhoods to Live In

• South Tampa: Historic homes, high-end shopping, and a strong sense of community. Rent: $2,200–$3,500.

• Hyde Park: Tree-lined streets, upscale shops, and historic architecture. Rent: $2,500–$4,000.

• Westchase: Family-friendly suburban community with excellent schools and parks. Rent: $1,800–$2,800.

• Seminole Heights: Artsy vibe with craft breweries, historic charm, and unique restaurants. Rent: $1,500–$2,200.

Top Things to Do

• Visit the Tampa Riverwalk: Scenic walkway along the Hillsborough River with art installations, parks, and museums.

• Explore Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Amusement park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, and a top-tier zoo.

• Discover Ybor City: Historic Latin Quarter with vibrant nightlife, Cuban heritage, and hand-rolled cigars.

• Tour the Florida Aquarium: Family-friendly spot featuring aquatic exhibits and interactive experiences.

• Stroll Through the Tampa Museum of Art: Contemporary and classical art collections in downtown Tampa.

Best Schools for Kids

• Plant High School: Top-rated public high school with rigorous academics and strong extracurriculars.

• Mitchell Elementary School: Highly rated public elementary school known for academic excellence.

• Tampa Preparatory School: Well-known private school preparing students for college success.

• Berkeley Preparatory School: Top private school offering a holistic pre-K through 12th-grade education.

• Wilson Middle School: Top-rated public middle school with advanced academic tracks and extracurriculars.

5. Golden Glades

Average Salary

$273,637

Highlights

Golden Glades is situated within the Miami metropolitan area, offering physicians a balance of community-focused practice and access to big-city amenities. Its proximity to Miami provides a diverse patient base and a high demand for medical services. Though less well-known than Miami Beach or downtown Miami, Golden Glades presents lucrative opportunities for doctors looking to work in a vibrant and diverse community.

Top Places to Eat

• Chef Creole: Local favorite for authentic Haitian cuisine with bold flavors and fresh seafood.

• World Famous House of Mac: Creative comfort food with a variety of mac-and-cheese dishes and southern-inspired meals.

• The Licking Miami Gardens: Soul food with a modern twist, known for fried chicken, ribs, and seafood.

• Mojo Donuts & Fried Chicken: Unique spot offering delicious, fresh-made donuts and fried chicken sandwiches.

• Vicky Bakery: Popular Cuban bakery chain offering pastries, sandwiches, and Cuban coffee.

Top Neighborhoods to Live In

• North Miami Beach: Diverse community with parks, shopping, and easy access to downtown and beaches. Rent: $1,600–$2,500.

• Miami Shores: Quiet, family-friendly neighborhood with tree-lined streets and historic homes. Rent: $1,800–$3,000.

• Biscayne Gardens: Residential neighborhood with larger lots and a rural feel, close to major attractions. Rent: $1,500–$2,300.

• Miami Gardens: Suburban community home to Hard Rock Stadium, offering affordable living close to Miami. Rent: $1,400–$2,200.

Top Things to Do

• Visit Hard Rock Stadium: Catch a Miami Dolphins or Hurricanes game or attend concerts and events.

• Explore Oleta River State Park: Kayaking, biking, and hiking for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Check out Aventura Mall: One of the largest shopping centers in South Florida with luxury retailers and entertainment.

• Spend a Day at Haulover Beach: Less crowded beach with scenic views, picnic areas, and a dog-friendly section.

• Go to the Ancient Spanish Monastery: Historic site offering a peaceful, scenic escape in North Miami Beach.

Best Schools for Kids

• North Miami Beach Senior High School: Well-regarded public high school with advanced placement courses.

• Monsignor Edward Pace High School: Private Catholic high school with rigorous academics and strong athletic programs.

• David Lawrence Jr. K-8 Center: Highly rated public school known for strong academic performance.

• Archbishop Curley Notre Dame High School: Private Catholic school offering a college-preparatory curriculum.

• Biscayne Gardens Elementary School: Well-regarded public elementary school with a focus on academic achievement.

All in all, choosing the right location to practice medicine is crucial for any physician. The top-paying cities in Florida not only offer attractive salaries but also provide a high quality of life, whether you prefer the fast-paced, multicultural environment of Miami or the more laid-back, community-focused setting of Port St. Lucie. With no state income tax and a growing demand for healthcare services, Florida continues to be a desirable destination for medical professionals looking to advance their careers and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

Are you considering a move to Florida for your medical practice? These cities offer a compelling mix of professional opportunity and personal lifestyle. Share your thoughts or experiences about practicing medicine in Florida in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!