Veterinarians Salary in California (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
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Overview
The median wage for veterinarians in California is $163,920 per year (gross, before tax) — 26.0% above the US national median of $130,100 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 9,000 people work in this occupation in California. Negotiating an offer in California? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
California Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $74,850 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $125,460 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $163,920 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $211,840 | Experienced |
| 90th | $286,330 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How California Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| California | $163,920 | +26.0% |
| Maryland | $163,170 | +25.4% |
| Washington | $160,510 | +23.4% |
| New Jersey | $160,140 | +23.1% |
| Arizona | $152,020 | +16.8% |
| Massachusetts | $140,260 | +7.8% |
| District of Columbia | $134,530 | +3.4% |
| Illinois | $133,580 | +2.7% |
| Pennsylvania | $133,520 | +2.6% |
| Minnesota | $133,110 | +2.3% |
All states for veterinarians →
Recommended Gear & Prep
Interviewing in California? Interview prep books cover the common question sets.
All salaries in California · UK data for this occupation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a veterinarians in California?
The median salary in California is $163,920 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $169,860.
How does California pay compare to the US national average?
California is 26.0% above the US national median of $130,100 for this occupation.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25