Veterinarian pay
What veterinarians earn — and keep — in 2026
Veterinary medicine requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and pays accordingly. The BLS reports a median veterinarian wage of $125,510 (May 2024). Board-certified specialists, emergency vets and clinic owners earn more — the top 10% exceed $200,000.
Where a veterinarian's paycheck goes
On the $125,510 median, a single veterinarian pays federal income tax into the 24% bracket after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security (up to the $184,500 wage base) and 1.45% Medicare. Specialists crossing $200,000 also owe the 0.9% Additional Medicare Tax.
The highest-paying states for veterinarians
Veterinarians earn the most in states with high demand and cost of living — including California, New York, Washington, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Washington pairs strong vet pay with no state income tax.
Compare the role with other careers
See how veterinarian pay compares with a dentist or optometrist, or check your exact net in Washington.
Questions
Veterinarian Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a veterinarian make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $125,510 for veterinarians (May 2024). Board-certified specialists, emergency vets and practice owners earn more, and the top 10% exceed $200,000.
What is a veterinarian's take-home pay on $125,510?
A single veterinarian earning the $125,510 median takes home roughly $92,000 to $94,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, less where state tax applies. Practice owners' taxes differ — this models employee pay.
Do specialist veterinarians earn more?
Yes. Board-certified specialists in surgery, oncology, cardiology and emergency medicine, plus practice owners, earn well above the median — often crossing $200,000, where the 0.9% Additional Medicare Tax applies. Enter your actual pay for an accurate estimate.
Which states pay veterinarians the most?
Veterinarians earn the highest wages in high-demand, high-cost states including California, New York, Washington, New Jersey and Massachusetts. No-income-tax states like Washington let you keep more of a six-figure salary.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Veterinarians (median $125,510, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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