Veterinarian salaries vary by country, experience, specialization, and work setting, but here are the key figures:
United States
- The median annual wage for veterinarians was about $125,510 in May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Another source notes an average salary of around $128,656 per year as of May 2025
- Salaries range widely: the top 25% earn above $155,230, while the bottom 25% earn below $94,860
- Geographic location affects pay significantly, with top-paying metro areas like San Jose, CA, offering salaries around $183,860, and states like Massachusetts averaging $162,030
- Entry-level veterinarians may start with salaries around $65,000 to $75,000, especially in fields like production or large animal medicine
- Factors influencing salary include education (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree), experience, specialization, and type of employer (private practice tends to pay more)
Sweden (for comparison)
- The average monthly salary for a veterinarian is about 50,300 SEK (~$5,200 USD), with men earning slightly more than women on average
- Salaries range from about 38,500 SEK to 55,900 SEK per month depending on gender and position
Summary
- In the U.S., veterinarians typically earn between roughly $95,000 and $155,000 annually, with a median near $125,000.
- Entry-level salaries can be lower, around $65,000 to $75,000.
- Salaries increase with experience, specialization, and location.
- In Sweden, monthly salaries average around 50,300 SEK.
This reflects a well-compensated profession that requires extensive education and licensing but varies by region and specialty.
