How Much Do Veterinary Technicians Make?

Veterinary technicians, or vet techs, are essential members of the animal healthcare team, providing hands-on care and assisting veterinarians with various procedures. If you’re considering this profession, one key question is: How much do vet techs make?

Average Salary for Vet Techs

As of 2024, the average annual salary for a veterinary technician in the U.S. is approximately $41,912. This comes out to an hourly wage of about $20.15​(Salary.com)​(Talent). Salaries, however, can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and certifications.

• Entry-Level Vet Techs: Starting salaries for vet techs are typically around $33,000 per year. This is common for those just entering the field or working in smaller clinics​(Talent).
• Experienced Vet Techs: With several years of experience and potentially some specialized certifications, vet techs can earn upwards of $50,000 annually, especially in high-demand areas or specialized veterinary practices​(Salary.com).

Factors Affecting Salary

1. Location: Geographic region plays a major role in determining a vet tech’s salary. For instance, states with a higher cost of living, like California and New York, offer significantly higher salaries. In contrast, states like Louisiana report lower average wages, closer to $33,150​(Talent).
2. Experience and Specialization: As in most careers, experience matters. Veterinary technicians with more years of work experience or those who pursue specialties, such as in emergency or dental care, tend to earn higher salaries. Specialized vet techs can see salary increases of 10-15% compared to generalist roles.
3. Workplace Setting: The type of workplace can also impact earnings. Vet techs working in research facilities or specialty clinics often earn more than those in general veterinary practices. Veterinary hospitals or animal research centers tend to offer more competitive wages due to the complexity of the work involved​(Talent).

Job Outlook

The demand for veterinary technicians is on the rise, with job growth projected to be much faster than the national average for all occupations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of vet techs is expected to grow by 20% from 2021 to 2031. This growing demand for pet healthcare services, particularly preventive care, drives the need for more vet techs.

Career Progression

Becoming a veterinary technician typically requires an associate degree in veterinary technology, and most states require passing a licensing exam, such as the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Pursuing further certifications in specialized areas, such as anesthesia, dentistry, or emergency care, can lead to higher pay and more job opportunities​(Talent).

Conclusion

Veterinary technicians are vital to the animal healthcare field, and the profession offers a steady and rewarding income, with room for growth through specialization and experience. If you’re passionate about animal care and looking for a career that provides both personal and professional satisfaction, becoming a vet tech might be the right path for you.

For more information about becoming a vet tech, check out additional resources like Vet Tech Programs or the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).