Florida, known for its sunny beaches and booming tourism, is also home to a diverse economy with strong job opportunities across healthcare, finance, education, and more.
As we move through 2025, understanding the average salary in Florida—and where and how to earn the most—is more important than ever for job seekers, career changers, and business owners alike.
Whether you’re considering relocating, starting your career, or planning a strategic career move, this guide breaks down the top-paying cities, industries, and jobs in the Sunshine State this year.
Florida Salary Overview
- Statewide average salary (mean): $60,216
- Median salary: $62,973 (sofi.com)
This places Florida slightly below the national average, reflecting its mix of high and modest-paying industries.
Highest-Paying Cities in Florida
| City | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Bonita Springs | $68,218 (+$8k) (ramseysolutions.com) |
| Tallahassee | $67,842 (+$7.6k) |
| West Palm Beach | $67,215 (+$7k) |
| Gainesville | $66,989 (+$6.8k) |
| Winter Haven | $66,997 (+$6.8k) |
Best Cities for Young Professionals
Orlando and Tampa stand out for strong entry-level opportunities and steady job growth, ranking among the top U.S. cities for new graduates.
Top-Paying Jobs & Industries in Florida (2025)
Industrial & Manufacturing
- Industrial Manufacturing: average $62,399/yr (~$30/hr)
- Top Florida cities like Port St. Lucie and Miami Beach pay up to $82,000–$83,500/yr
- General Manufacturing: average wage $18.64/hr (~$38,777/yr); peaks at $54k/yr in Merritt Island
Skilled Trades & Technical Roles
- HVAC Technicians: ~$40,000/year, below national average
- Electricians: median U.S. salary $62,350; Florida demand rising fast
High-Growth Careers
According to CareerFitter:
- IT/Computer & Info Systems Managers: $169,510/yr
- Financial Managers: $156,100/yr
- Nurse Practitioners: $126,260/yr
Major metro areas like Miami and Orlando reflect similar salary trends.
Leading Industries by Pay & Employment
Florida’s major employment sectors:
- Trade, Transportation & Utilities
- Government
- Professional & Business Services
- Education & Health Services
- Leisure & Hospitality
High-output industries by GDP:
- Finance, Insurance & Real Estate
- Professional & Business Services
- Government & Healthcare
Top economic hubs:
- Orlando: aerospace, defense, tech
- Tampa: finance, logistics, healthcare
- Jacksonville: distribution, biomedical, IT
Minimum Wage Context
- Current minimum wage: $13/hr
- Scheduled to reach $15/hr by Sept 30, 2026 (dol.gov)
Strategy for Higher Earnings in Florida
- Target high-paying cities like Bonita Springs and Tallahassee
- Focus on booming sectors like finance, healthcare, and IT
- Upskill or specialize in areas like project management, cybersecurity, or nursing
- Balance income with cost of living in smaller but high-paying regions
Final Takeaway
In 2025, Florida continues to offer a competitive salary landscape—especially for professionals in healthcare, tech, and finance.
While the statewide average sits just over $60,000, smart career moves and city selection can push your income much higher.
Whether you’re launching your career or seeking a salary boost, the Sunshine State has opportunities worth exploring.
About The Author
More Stories
Average Salary in Florida in 2025: Top Cities, Jobs & Industries
Average Salary in Florida in 2025: Top Cities, Jobs & Industries
Average Salary in Florida in 2025: Top Cities, Jobs & Industries