Animal Caretakers Salary 2025: $35,360 Median, 12% Growth
Animal caretakers earn a median $35,360 per year, or about $17 an hour. The typical range runs from $27,250 at the 10th percentile to $50,060 at the 90th, according to the latest BLS data.
How much Animal Caretakers earn
The national mean wage for animal caretakers is $37,300. Half of all workers make between the 10th and 90th percentiles — roughly $27,250 to $50,060. Entry-level positions often start near the low end, while experienced caretakers in specialized roles or high-cost areas can approach $50,000.
Pay by state
Location drives big differences. The District of Columbia pays the most, with an average annual wage of $44,210. Washington state follows at $40,570, Hawaii at $40,130, Massachusetts at $39,650, and California at $38,700.
At the low end, animal caretakers in Alabama earn a mean $28,330, Louisiana $27,910, and Mississippi $26,970. That's a gap of more than $17,000 between D.C. and Mississippi.
How to become Animal Caretaker
Most animal caretaker jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is typical; a formal degree is rarely necessary. Experience with animals — volunteering at shelters, pet-sitting, or farm work — counts heavily.
Some positions, especially in animal hospitals or labs, prefer or require certification. The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America offers credentials like the Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA). Certain states also license animal control officers or kennel operators. Check local requirements.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Gain hands-on experience: volunteer at an animal shelter, intern at a veterinary clinic, or work on a farm.
- Complete a certificate program in animal care if targeting specialized roles (e.g., kennel tech, lab animal caretaker).
- Apply for entry-level positions: kennel attendant, animal shelter worker, pet care assistant.
Job outlook
Employment of animal caretakers is projected to grow 12.1 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 74,600 job openings each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
Rising pet ownership and increased spending on animal care services drive demand. Shelters, kennels, veterinary clinics, and pet-sitting businesses all need caretakers. Those with specialized skills — like handling exotic animals or administering medication — will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for animal caretakers?
Entry-level animal caretakers earn about $27,250 annually (10th percentile), per the BLS. Some positions may start slightly higher depending on location and employer.
Do animal caretakers need a degree?
No degree is required. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. Certifications can boost prospects for specialized roles.
Where do animal caretakers earn the most?
The highest-paying states are District of Columbia ($44,210), Washington ($40,570), Hawaii ($40,130), Massachusetts ($39,650), and California ($38,700), according to BLS data.
Will animal caretaker jobs grow?
Yes, employment is projected to grow 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, creating about 74,600 openings yearly.
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 Caretakers data.