National average $43,740/year ($21.03/hr). Compare vet tech salaries by state, specialization, experience, and work setting.
Range: $30,410 (10th percentile) to $60,960 (90th percentile)
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Estimated Annual Salary
$43,740
$21.03/hr based on 2,080 hours/year
Estimate based on BLS national data with adjustments for state, experience, specialization, and setting. Actual offers vary by employer.
The national average veterinary technician salary is $43,740 per year ($21.03 per hour) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. The bottom 10% earn around $30,410, while the top 10% earn $60,960 or more.
California, Connecticut, and Alaska consistently rank as the top-paying states for vet techs, with California averaging over $55,000 per year. Higher cost of living and strong demand in these states drive the premium pay.
Yes. Credentialed veterinary technicians (CVT, LVT, or RVT depending on the state) typically earn 10-20% more than non-credentialed technicians. Specialty certifications through the NAVTA can add an additional 15-28% premium.
Anesthesia and surgery specializations typically offer the highest salaries, averaging 25-28% above the general practice baseline. Emergency and critical care follows closely at around 20-22% above baseline.
Vet tech salaries are generally lower than human healthcare equivalents. Phlebotomists average around $39,000, medical assistants around $42,000, while surgical technologists average $58,000. Vet techs fill a unique niche requiring both technical and animal handling expertise.
The BLS projects 19% job growth for veterinary technologists and technicians through 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand is driven by increased pet ownership, advanced veterinary care, and research needs.