How Much Do Veterinarians Make?
$103,260median annual salary
$49.64/hour · $8,605/month · BLS Code: 29-1131
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. They perform surgeries, prescribe medications, and advise pet owners on animal care. The profession has one of the strongest growth outlooks of any career, driven by increased pet ownership and spending.
Veterinarian Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$65,000
Starting salary
Median
$103,260
50th percentile
Senior Level
$160,000
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$187,200
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Veterinarians
#1
California
$140,970
#2
New Jersey
$135,680
#3
Texas
$134,230
#4
Connecticut
$132,860
#5
Hawaii
$131,500
Top Paying Cities for Veterinarians
Education & Requirements
Education
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) — 4 years after bachelor's degree
Typical Degree
DVM
Certifications
Job Outlook
+19%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
86,200
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Veterinarian Salary FAQ
How much do veterinarians make?
The median annual salary is about $103,260. Emergency and specialty vets can earn $150,000-$250,000+. Practice owners' income varies widely based on location and practice size.
Is being a vet worth it financially?
Vet school debt averages $180,000-$200,000. While salaries are good, the debt-to-income ratio is less favorable than human medicine. The career is best pursued for passion alongside financial considerations.
What type of vet makes the most money?
Veterinary ophthalmologists, surgeons, and radiologists are among the highest-paid specialists, often earning $200,000-$350,000. Zoo/exotic animal vets tend to earn less despite advanced training.
How long does it take to become a veterinarian?
8 years minimum: 4 years of undergraduate study (with pre-vet coursework) plus 4 years of veterinary school. Specialists complete an additional 3-5 years of residency training.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.