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How much does a vet tech make in a year? The answer may surprise you. Get the facts about vet tech salaries and job outlook.
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Introduction
Vet techs are in high demand and the field is expected to grow by nearly 20% in the next decade. If you’re considering a career as a vet tech, you’re probably wondering how much money you can expect to earn. Here’s a look at what vet techs make in a year, on average, and some of the factors that can affect your salary.
Factors That Affect a Vet Tech’s Salary
A vet tech’s salary can be affected by a number of different factors. The most obvious factor is experience. A vet tech with more experience will typically make more money than one with less experience. Another factor that can affect a vet tech’s salary is the region they live in. Vet techs in cities typically make more money than those in rural areas.
Location
There are a few factors that affect how much a vet tech makes in a year. One of the biggest factors is location. Vet techs in urban areas tend to make more than those in rural areas. This is because there is more demand for vet techs in urban areas and also because the cost of living is generally higher in urban areas. Another factor that affects vet tech salaries is experience. Vet techs with more experience tend to make more than those with less experience. And finally, the type of employer can also affect vet tech salaries. For example, vet techs who work for private practices tend to make more than those who work for animal shelters or rescue organizations.
Experience
One of the biggest factors affecting a vet tech’s salary is experience. A vet tech with several years of experience can expect to earn more than a new graduate.
The type of employer also affects earnings. Vet techs who work for large animal hospitals or veterinary clinics usually earn more than those who work for small animal practices or shelters. Hospitals and clinics often offer more opportunities for overtime and on-call work, which can also boost earnings.
Location is another important factor. Vet techs who work in urban areas typically earn more than those in rural areas. This is due in part to the higher cost of living in cities, but it also reflects the greater demand for veterinary services in these areas.
Finally, education plays a role in earnings. Those who have completed a two-year associate degree program or a four-year bachelor’s degree program will generally earn more than those with only a high school diploma.
Education
The amount of money a vet tech earns annually is affected by many factors, with education being one of the most important. Vet techs who have completed a two-year associate’s degree program earn, on average, $3,000 more per year than those who have completed only a certificate or diploma program. In addition, vet techs with a four-year bachelor’s degree tend to earn the most money. Although a bachelor’s degree is not required to become a vet tech, those who have one may be better prepared for management positions and may be able to earn higher salaries.
Certification
There are many factors that affect a vet tech’s salary, but one of the most important is certification. Certification can be obtained through a variety of organizations, such as the National Veterinary Technician Association or the American Veterinary Medical Association. Certification demonstrates to employers that a vet tech has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job effectively. In many cases, certified vet techs earn higher salaries than non-certified vet techs.
The Average Salary for a Vet Tech
Vet techs are in high demand and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in the field by 2026. As a vet tech, you can expect to make a comfortable salary. The average salary for a vet tech is $33,280 per year. However, your salary will depend on a number of factors, including your experience, education, and location.
National Average
As of May 2019, the median annual salary for vet techs was $33,610, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The lowest 10 percent earned less than $22,770, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $48,350. Vetting is a popular profession, with a projected job growth of 19 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Top Paying States
While most people who become veterinary technicians love animals and have a desire to help them, another important factor in the decision to enter this career may be earning potential. So, how much does a vet tech make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2018 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual salary for veterinary technicians is $33,400 per year, or $16.04 per hour. This means that half of all vet techs earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
However, earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location and employer. For example, the top 10% of earners in this field make more than $48,490 per year, while the bottom 10% make less than $22,930.
Top-paying states for veterinary technicians include Alaska ($44,610), New Jersey ($42,350), Massachusetts ($41,470), Connecticut ($39,780) and California ($38,780).
Career Outlook for Vet Techs
The career outlook for vet techs is positive, with a projected job growth of 19% between 2016 and 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for veterinary services is expected to increase as the pet population continues to grow. In addition, an increasing number of pet owners are opting for advanced medical care for their furry companions, which will require more vet techs to assist veterinarians in providing this care.
Conclusion
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for vet techs was $32,490 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,410, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $49,030.
