If you’re considering a career in veterinary technology, you may be wondering what you can expect to earn in 2025. The vet tech salary is an essential factor in your decision-making process, as it varies based on experience, location, and specialty. This guide will give you a comprehensive look at the average vet tech salary, regional differences, and the factors that influence how much you can earn. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, understanding vet tech pay vs living wage is crucial for planning your career and financial goals.
What Is the Average Vet Tech Salary in 2025?
In 2025, the average vet tech salary in the United States is expected to range between $36,000 and $46,000 per year, with variations based on experience, education, and geographic location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for veterinary technicians was $37,860 in 2023, and this number is projected to grow steadily in 2025.
The salary of a vet tech is often influenced by factors like:
- Experience: Entry-level techs earn less, while those with more than 5–10 years in the field see an increase in pay.
- Location: Vet techs in urban areas or regions with higher living costs typically earn more than those in rural areas.
- Specialty: Techs in specialized fields, such as emergency medicine, surgical technology, or dental care, can expect higher salaries.
Factors That Influence Vet Tech Salary
Several key factors determine how much a vet tech assistant salary or vet tech salary can vary:
1. Experience
- Entry-Level: A newly certified vet tech can expect a starting salary of about $30,000 to $35,000 annually.
- Mid-Level: With 3-5 years of experience, a vet tech may see their salary rise to the $40,000 to $45,000 range.
- Experienced: Vet techs with 10+ years of experience or those in leadership roles can earn $50,000 or more.
2. Education & Certification
- Having additional certifications, such as Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT), or a degree from a veterinary technician school can lead to higher earnings. Specializations like veterinary dental tech, veterinary anesthesia, or animal behavior can command premium pay.
3. Location
- Urban Areas: In cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, the cost of living is higher, and so are vet tech salaries. These areas may offer salaries ranging from $45,000 to $55,000 annually.
- Rural Areas: In smaller towns or rural settings, vet techs may earn $30,000 to $40,000, but the lower cost of living can make this a livable salary.
For more insight into how vet tech pay vs living wage plays out regionally, visit this helpful article: Vet Tech Pay vs Living Wage.
Breaking Down the Vet Tech Assistant Salary
For those entering the veterinary field as assistants, vet tech assistant salaries typically start lower than a full vet tech. On average, the salary of a vet tech assistant ranges between $28,000 and $38,000 annually.
Despite the lower pay, this role can be a great stepping stone to becoming a certified vet tech, as many assistants receive on-the-job training and opportunities to advance to higher-paying positions.
How Much Do Vet Techs in Specialty Areas Earn?
Specialized vet techs can command higher salaries due to their expertise and the advanced training required. For example:
- Emergency Vet Techs: $50,000–$65,000 due to the high-stress, round-the-clock nature of the job.
- Surgical Vet Techs: $45,000–$60,000, depending on experience and the complexity of procedures.
- Veterinary Dental Techs: With specialized training, these techs earn $50,000–$70,000 or more.
These specialties are often more demanding, but the financial rewards can make the additional training worth the effort.
Vet Tech Salary vs Cost of Living
One important factor when evaluating your vet tech salary is how it compares to the local cost of living. In cities where housing, transportation, and basic expenses are high, a salary of $40,000 may not go as far as it would in a more affordable region.
To understand how vet tech pay vs living wage works in your area, it’s crucial to factor in the local cost of living, which varies drastically across the country.
For example, the salary of a vet tech in California or New York may be significantly higher than in rural Montana, but the cost of living in those states is also much steeper.
To help you navigate this, check out the Vet Tech Pay vs Living Wage guide, which compares salary data across different regions.
Vet Tech Salary Growth Potential
The career outlook for veterinary technicians is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting 9% growth in employment from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for most professions. As veterinary practices expand and offer more specialized services, the demand for skilled techs will continue to rise.
This means that your vet tech salary has significant growth potential, especially if you pursue additional certifications or specialize in high-demand areas.
Comparing Vet Tech Salary to Other Healthcare Roles
To put the vet tech salary in perspective, let’s compare it to similar healthcare roles:
| Job Title | Average Salary | Job Outlook |
| Vet Tech | $37,860 | 9% growth |
| Medical Assistant | $37,190 | 18% growth |
| Pharmacy Technician | $36,500 | 4% growth |
| Dental Hygienist | $77,000 | 6% growth |
As you can see, vet tech salary is competitive with other healthcare positions, and the job growth rate is higher than many non-technical healthcare roles.
FAQs About Vet Tech Salaries
1. What is the average salary of a vet tech in 2025?
The average vet tech salary in 2025 is projected to range from $36,000 to $46,000 annually, depending on factors like location, experience, and specialization.
2. How much does a vet tech assistant earn?
A vet tech assistant salary typically falls between $28,000 and $38,000, but this can increase with on-the-job experience and training.
3. Can I increase my vet tech salary over time?
Yes, by gaining experience, obtaining certifications in specialized areas, or moving to higher-paying regions, you can increase your salary of a vet tech.
4. Is there a demand for vet techs in 2025?
Yes, the demand for veterinary technicians is expected to grow by 9% from 2021 to 2031, driven by an increase in pet ownership and veterinary care.
5. Does location affect my vet tech salary?
Yes, geographic location plays a significant role in vet tech pay. Urban areas or states with a higher cost of living often offer higher salaries, but this is balanced by higher living costs.
6. How does a vet tech salary compare to the cost of living?
The salary of a vet tech may be sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle in many areas, but it’s important to compare it against the local cost of living. For more detailed comparisons, visit Vet Tech Pay vs Living Wage.
Conclusion — Is Vet Tech a Good Career Choice in 2025?
With strong job growth, competitive pay, and a meaningful impact on animal health, a career as a vet tech is more promising than ever. Whether you’re just entering the field or are a seasoned professional, there are many opportunities to increase your vet tech salary through experience, education, and specialization.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and understand how vet tech pay vs living wage varies by location, check out this detailed guide to make informed decisions.
