Animal Care and Service Workers earn $35,530 median salary – a realistic look at pay, path, and outlook
If you love working with animals, you've probably wondered what the pay actually is for Animal Care and Service Workers. The national median salary is $35,530 per year, or about $17 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That means half earn less, half earn more. The typical range runs from $27,410 at the 10th percentile to $51,860 at the 90th.
How much Animal Care and Service Workers earn
The median annual wage for Animal Care and Service Workers is $35,530, with a mean of $37,940. At the low end, the 10th percentile earns around $27,410; at the high end, the 90th percentile earns $51,860. Most workers are paid hourly, roughly $17 per hour on average.
Pay varies by setting. Those in animal shelters, kennels, and pet stores often start near the bottom of the range, while specialized jobs like marine mammal trainers or veterinary assistants in high-cost areas can push toward the top. Experience and certifications matter, but this is generally an entry-level to mid-level occupation.
Pay by state
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish state-level data for this occupation in the most recent release. However, wages tend to follow cost of living: states like Massachusetts, California, and Washington typically pay higher, while southern and midwestern states pay lower. Check your state's labor office for local figures.
How to become Animal Care and Service Worker
This occupation is one of the most accessible in terms of entry requirements. Most jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. No formal postsecondary education is needed, but on-the-job training is common.
Steps to enter the field:
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Gain experience by volunteering at animal shelters, pet stores, or veterinary clinics.
- Apply for entry-level positions such as kennel attendant, pet groomer, or animal caretaker.
- Consider earning a certification (e.g., Certified Animal Care Technician) to improve job prospects.
- Some roles, like veterinary assistants, may require a short certificate program or on-the-job training.
Job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not provide a projected growth rate for 2024–2034 for this specific occupation. However, demand for pet care and animal services is generally expected to grow as pet ownership rises. Job openings will also come from turnover in this large field.
Frequently asked questions
Is $35,530 a good salary for animal care workers?
It depends on your location and expenses. $35,530 is near the national median for all occupations, but many entry-level animal care jobs start lower, around $27,000. In high-cost areas, the salary may not stretch far, but in lower-cost regions it can be comfortable.
Do animal care workers get benefits?
Full-time positions at shelters, kennels, or veterinary hospitals often include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Part-time and temporary workers may not get benefits. Always check with the employer.
How can I make more money as an animal care worker?
Specializing or earning certifications can boost pay. Examples: becoming a certified dog groomer, pet sitter, or veterinary technician (which requires more education). Gaining experience and moving to higher-paying states also helps.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Animal Care and Service Workers data.