Introduction
Veterinarians are healthcare professionals who provide medical care for animals of all kinds. From cats and dogs to horses, cows, and other livestock, vets diagnose and treat a variety of ailments in their four-legged patients. It’s a challenging, rewarding job that requires years of schooling and on-the-job training. But how much money do vets make? Let’s take a look at veterinary salaries and explore the factors that can influence wages.
Overview of Veterinary Salaries
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for veterinarians was $95,460 in May 2019. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the median annual income for full-time veterinarians is slightly higher, coming in at $100,000. And while the national average is helpful, it doesn’t tell the whole story. Salaries for vets can vary significantly based on location, experience, and other factors.
A Comparison of Vet Salaries Across the Country
National Average Salary for Vets
The AVMA’s 2020 Veterinary Economic Report found that the median earnings for veterinarians were $95,500 in 2018. This figure includes salaries from all types of practice settings, including private practices, research institutions, zoos, and more. The report also found that the median annual salary for male veterinarians ($105,000) was higher than the median salary for female veterinarians ($90,000).
Regional Variations in Vet Salary
Veterinarians can earn different salaries based on where they work. The BLS reports that California, New York, Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania have some of the highest concentrations of veterinarians in the country and offer some of the highest average wages. For example, the average salary for a vet in California is $118,770, while the average in Texas is $112,030. Meanwhile, the lowest wages for vets are typically found in the Midwest and South, although the cost of living may be lower in these regions.
What Factors Impact a Veterinarian’s Salary?
Veterinary salaries can vary significantly depending on a range of factors, including:
Education Level
All veterinarians must complete an accredited Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. Some also pursue additional degrees or certifications, such as a Master of Science in Veterinary Science (MSVS) or a Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) certification. Higher levels of education typically lead to higher salaries.
Experience
Veterinarians with more years of experience tend to earn higher wages. This is especially true for those who specialize in certain fields, such as surgery, dentistry, or emergency care.
Location
As we mentioned earlier, salaries for vets can vary significantly by state or even by city. Cost of living is a major factor here, as wages in high-cost cities like Los Angeles or New York City will be significantly higher than those in smaller towns or rural areas.
Specialization
Vets who specialize in certain fields, such as surgery or cardiology, often command higher salaries than general practitioners. Specialists may also be able to secure positions at universities or research institutions, which can offer higher salaries than private practices.
The Average Income for Vets in Different Settings
Veterinarians can work in a variety of settings, each of which offers its own unique salary potential.
Private Practices
Many vets work in private practices, providing medical care for companion animals like cats and dogs. According to the AVMA, the median annual salary for vets in private practice was $94,900 in 2018. That figure includes both general practitioners and specialists.
Research Institutions
Vets employed by research institutions, such as universities or pharmaceutical companies, typically earn higher salaries than those working in private practice. The AVMA reports that the median salary for vets working in research was $128,000 in 2018.
Veterinary Schools
Vets who teach at veterinary schools or serve on faculty often earn higher salaries than those in private practice. The AVMA reports that the median salary for faculty members at veterinary schools was $130,000 in 2018.
Zoos, Aquariums, and Wildlife Centers
Vets who specialize in exotic animals, such as reptiles, birds, and marine mammals, can find employment at zoos, aquariums, and wildlife centers. According to the AVMA, the median salary for vets in this field was $115,000 in 2018.
How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Vet
If you’re looking to increase your earnings as a vet, there are several steps you can take:
Pursue Further Education
Vets with advanced degrees or certifications, such as a master’s degree or VTNE certification, can often command higher salaries than those without them. Additionally, pursuing further education can open up opportunities for teaching or research positions, which typically offer higher wages.
Negotiate Higher Salaries
When negotiating a salary, it’s important to research current market rates for vets in your area. You should also consider benefits in addition to salary, such as vacation time, health insurance, and retirement plans. Finally, be sure to leverage your qualifications and experience when negotiating your salary.
Take Advantage of Professional Organizations
Professional organizations, such as the AVMA and the American Association of Veterinary State Boards, can provide valuable resources for vets looking to maximize their earnings. These organizations can provide information on salary trends, job postings, and continuing education opportunities.
How Does Education Level Affect Vet Salaries?
Educational attainment is one of the most significant factors affecting vet salaries. Here’s a brief overview of the different educational paths for vets and their associated salaries:
Bachelor’s Degree
Most vets hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as animal science or biology. While a bachelor’s degree isn’t required to become a vet, it can help prepare students for the rigors of veterinary school and may lead to higher salaries after graduation.
Master’s Degree
Some vets choose to pursue a master’s degree in veterinary science or related fields. This can open up opportunities for teaching or research positions, which typically offer higher salaries. According to the AVMA, the median salary for vets with a master’s degree was $110,000 in 2018.
Doctoral Degrees
Vets with doctoral degrees, such as a PhD or DVM, can often command higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s or master’s degree. According to the AVMA, the median salary for vets with a doctoral degree was $150,000 in 2018.
How to Negotiate a Higher Wage as a Vet
Negotiating a higher wage is an important step for any vet looking to maximize their earnings. Here are a few tips to help you get the salary you deserve:
Research Current Market Rates
Before negotiating, it’s important to research current market rates for vets in your area. This will help you understand what employers are willing to pay and give you an idea of what you should be asking for.
Consider Benefits in Addition to Salary
When negotiating a salary, don’t forget to consider benefits in addition to salary. These can include vacation time, health insurance, and retirement plans. These benefits can add up quickly and can be just as important as a higher salary.
Leverage Your Qualifications
When negotiating your salary, be sure to leverage your qualifications and experience. If you have specialized knowledge or skills, be sure to highlight them. This can help you secure a higher salary or other perks.
Exploring the Job Prospects for Vets
The job outlook for vets is positive. The BLS projects an 11% job growth rate for vets between 2018 and 2028. This is faster than the average for all occupations. Additionally, the growing demand for pet care is expected to drive job growth in the industry.
Employment Outlook
The BLS predicts that employment opportunities for vets will continue to grow over the next decade. This is due in part to the increasing demand for pet care services. Additionally, advances in veterinary medicine, such as new treatments and technologies, will create new opportunities for vets.
Growth Areas for Veterinary Professionals
According to the BLS, the fastest-growing areas for vets are expected to be in research, public health, and teaching. These areas typically offer higher salaries than private practices and can lead to career advancement.
Conclusion
Veterinarians provide important medical services for animals, but what does the job pay? We’ve explored average salaries, regional differences, and factors that can influence a vet’s wages. We’ve also discussed job outlooks for veterinary professionals and strategies for maximizing earnings. Ultimately, the amount a vet earns depends on a variety of factors, including education level, experience, and location. With the right qualifications and experience, vets can command higher salaries and enjoy a rewarding career.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)