Animal Control Worker Salary Guide 2025: Median $45,660, Top Pay by State
Animal control workers in the U.S. earn a median salary of $45,660 per year, or roughly $22 an hour. The typical range spans from $33,090 at the 10th percentile to $68,070 at the 90th, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In 2025, about 12,070 people work in this occupation, and the field is projected to grow 3.9% from 2024 to 2034.
How much Animal Control Workers earn
The median annual wage for animal control workers is $45,660. Half of workers earn less than that, half more. The mean wage is slightly higher at $48,440. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) pay around $33,090, while the top 10% earn $68,070 or more. Pay varies significantly by employer type, experience, and geographic location.
Pay by state
Washington tops the list with an average annual salary of $66,440, just ahead of Oregon at $66,130. Alaska ($63,340), California ($62,630), and Massachusetts ($60,930) also pay well above the national mean. On the lower end, West Virginia averages $35,120, Mississippi $34,890, and Arkansas $34,410. Cost of living partly explains the gaps, but these numbers reflect the local labor market for animal control.
How to become an Animal Control Worker
Most animal control workers need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with some college coursework in animal science, criminal justice, or a related field. On-the-job training lasting several months is typical. Some states or localities require certification, such as from the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA), which involves passing an exam and completing continuing education. A valid driver's license is almost always required. For those with experience as a veterinary assistant or humane officer, the transition can be smoother.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Consider associate degree or certificate in animal science or related field.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 3–6 months).
- Obtain state/local certification if required; NACA certification is common.
- Get a clean driving record and valid driver's license.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 3.9% growth from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,300 job openings per year over the decade, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. The occupation is small, so absolute growth is modest. Opportunities should be best in states with higher animal populations and strong local government funding for animal control services.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for an animal control worker?
Entry-level animal control workers earn around the 10th percentile, which is $33,090 per year. Starting pay may be lower in some regions or higher where cost of living is high.
Do you need a degree to be an animal control worker?
No, a high school diploma is typically the minimum requirement. Some employers prefer college coursework in animal science or criminal justice, but a degree is not mandatory.
What states pay animal control workers the most?
The top-paying states are Washington (average $66,440), Oregon ($66,130), Alaska ($63,340), California ($62,630), and Massachusetts ($60,930).
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 Control Workers data.