Veterinary Technologists and Technicians Salary 2025: $47,380 Median, 9% Growth
The median annual salary for veterinary technologists and technicians in the U.S. is $47,380, with the typical range spanning $35,710 to $63,180, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. At $49,120 mean and roughly $23 per hour, this is a solid middle-income career that doesn't require a four-year degree for many positions.
The field employs 129,140 workers nationwide, and the BLS projects employment will grow 9.1% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 14,300 openings each year, mostly due to replacement needs and expanding pet care demand.
How much Veterinary Technologists and Technicians earn
Compensation varies by experience, setting, and location. The lowest 10% earn around $35,710, while the top 10% make $63,180 or more. The middle 50% typically fall between $38,000 and $55,000.
Veterinary technicians in specialty or emergency clinics often earn higher wages than those in general practice. Animal hospitals and corporate practices also tend to pay more than small private clinics.
- Mean hourly wage: $23.62
- Entry-level (10th percentile): $35,710
- Experienced (90th percentile): $63,180
Pay by state
Location dramatically affects earnings. The District of Columbia pays the most at $61,270, followed by California ($60,630), Washington ($59,740), New York ($59,010), and Minnesota ($57,270). These higher costs of living partially offset the salary advantage.
In contrast, the lowest-paying states are clustered in the Southeast: Louisiana ($35,530), Mississippi ($36,380), and Alabama ($36,590). Technicians in these states earn roughly $25,000 less than their D.C. counterparts.
State-level data uses mean annual wages from the BLS 2024 estimates. Differences reflect local demand, cost of living, and regulations.
How to become Veterinary Technologists and Technician
Most veterinary technicians complete a two-year associate degree in veterinary technology (AVMA-accredited). Veterinary technologists typically hold a four-year bachelor's degree in the same field. Coursework includes animal anatomy, pharmacology, clinical procedures, and radiology.
After graduation, you must pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to become a credentialed veterinary technician (CVT, LVT, RVT — acronyms vary by state). Many states also require a state-specific exam or license. Some employers accept on-the-job training for assistants, but formal education is the standard for career advancement.
- Step 1: Earn an associate (technician) or bachelor's (technologist) degree from an AVMA-accredited program
- Step 2: Pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)
- Step 3: Obtain state licensure or certification (requirements vary)
- Step 4: Seek entry-level positions; continuing education often required for renewal
Job outlook
The BLS projects 9.1% employment growth for veterinary technologists and technicians from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 14,300 openings are expected each year, driven by the need to replace workers leaving the field and by increased demand for veterinary services.
More households own pets and are willing to spend on advanced care such as dental cleanings, cancer treatment, and preventive medicine. The trend toward pet humanization supports sustained demand for skilled technicians.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a degree to become a veterinary technician?
Most states require completion of an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program, typically a two-year associate degree for technicians and a four-year bachelor's for technologists. You also must pass the VTNE and meet state licensing requirements.
What is the difference between a veterinary technologist and a technician?
A veterinary technologist typically holds a four-year bachelor's degree, while a technician holds a two-year associate degree. In practice, their duties often overlap, but technologists may have more opportunities in research, specialty areas, and higher pay.
Which state pays veterinary technicians the most?
The District of Columbia has the highest mean annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians at $61,270, followed by California ($60,630), Washington ($59,740), New York ($59,010), and Minnesota ($57,270).
Is veterinary technology a growing career?
Yes. The BLS projects 9.1% employment growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average. Around 14,300 job openings are expected annually, driven by pet ownership trends and increased spending on animal healthcare.
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 Veterinary Technologists and Technicians data.