How much does a Registered Veterinary Technician make?
A Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) supports veterinarians in caring for animals. They perform many tasks to keep animals healthy. This job can be very rewarding. Many people find it satisfying to help animals and their owners. The salary for this position can also be quite good.
On average, an RVT makes about $53,462 per year. This is the average across all experience levels and locations. Some RVTs earn less, while others earn more. Salary can depend on where you work. It can also depend on your level of experience. Some RVTs start on the lower end of the salary range. With more experience, they can move up to higher pay. Here is a look at the salary distribution for RVTs:
- 10% make less than $40,000
- 25% make between $40,000 and $48,000
- 50% make between $48,000 and $60,000
- 25% make more than $60,000
This data shows that many RVTs earn a solid middle-class salary. With hard work and dedication, it is possible to move up and earn a higher salary. Working in a high-cost area or in a specialized clinic can also increase earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Registered Veterinary Technician?
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $72,740
In San Jose, working with pets and animals provides a rewarding career. The tech-driven environment includes many clinics equipped with advanced tools. With companies like VCA Animal Hospitals, one can find ample opportunities to grow professionally.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $71,358
San Francisco offers a vibrant atmosphere for veterinary technicians. The city's love for pets leads to many job openings. Top firms such as BluePearl Pet Hospital offer excellent career paths and a supportive work culture.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $70,779
Seattle's pet-friendly lifestyle makes it a great place for animal care professionals. Technicians can expect a collaborative work environment. Companies like Banfield Pet Hospital provide excellent opportunities for those looking to make a difference in pets' lives.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $62,692
Portland's emphasis on animal welfare creates a supportive workplace for veterinary technicians. The city’s many small animal clinics offer a variety of job opportunities. Working here means being part of a community that values pets highly.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $62,664
Boston provides a dynamic environment for those in animal care. The city’s numerous veterinary practices offer varied experiences. Employers like Angell Animal Medical Center ensure technicians have access to top-tier resources and training.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $62,123
Los Angeles is a bustling city for animal care professionals. The diverse job market includes many leading veterinary firms. With companies such as BluePearl Pet Hospital, technicians find plenty of growth opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $59,051
In Washington, DC, the thriving pet industry offers many job opportunities. Technicians work in well-equipped facilities. The presence of prominent clinics like PAWS DC provides a chance to work in a meaningful role.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $58,484
Richmond provides a stable environment for those in the pet care industry. Technicians here benefit from a strong community support system. Working in this city means being part of a tight-knit group of animal lovers.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $57,748
Santa Rosa offers a peaceful setting for veterinary technicians. The city’s many animal clinics provide a variety of work experiences. Local firms like Petaluma Veterinary Hospital offer a welcoming workplace.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $56,984
In Anchorage, the outdoorsy lifestyle is ideal for animal care professionals. Technicians often work in clinics that cater to unique wildlife needs. Companies such as Alaska Veterinary Medical Center provide a fulfilling career path.
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What are the best companies a Registered Veterinary Technician can work for?
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Pure Paws Veterinary Care
Average Salary: $74,000
Pure Paws Veterinary Care offers competitive salaries for Registered Veterinary Technicians. They provide top-notch care at their clinics located in Denver, Colorado. Technicians here focus on preventive care, diagnostics, and patient monitoring.
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Catskill Veterinary Services, PLLC
Average Salary: $71,833
Catskill Veterinary Services, PLLC, based in Kingston, New York, provides high salaries for Registered Veterinary Technicians. This company offers comprehensive animal care. Technicians support doctors with surgeries, lab work, and client communication.
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ASPCA
Average Salary: $70,667
The ASPCA, known for its advocacy work, provides a good salary for Registered Veterinary Technicians. They operate in New York City and other locations. Technicians here help with animal surgeries, emergency care, and animal welfare education.
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Modern Animal
Average Salary: $69,523
Modern Animal, with locations in New York City and Los Angeles, pays well for Registered Veterinary Technicians. This innovative practice offers cutting-edge care. Technicians assist with a range of services from routine checkups to complex surgeries.
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University of Pennsylvania
Average Salary: $66,766
The University of Pennsylvania's veterinary school, located in Philadelphia, offers a competitive salary for Registered Veterinary Technicians. They provide advanced medical care and support research. Technicians work in a dynamic academic environment, aiding in both clinical and educational duties.
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PETS Referral Center
Average Salary: $65,913
PETS Referral Center, based in Irvine, California, offers good compensation for Registered Veterinary Technicians. This specialized center provides advanced care for pets. Technicians here support specialized surgeries, diagnostics, and complex care.
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Helen Woodward Animal Center
Average Salary: $65,462
Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe, California, provides a solid salary for Registered Veterinary Technicians. They focus on animal welfare and rehabilitation. Technicians assist in surgeries, diagnostics, and patient care.
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Caring Hands Animal Hospital
Average Salary: $65,333
Caring Hands Animal Hospital offers competitive pay for Registered Veterinary Technicians. They operate in multiple locations across the country, providing a full range of veterinary services. Technicians here focus on patient care and assist with surgeries and diagnostics.
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BoosterPet
Average Salary: $64,926
BoosterPet provides good salaries for Registered Veterinary Technicians. Operating in various locations, they offer a variety of services including vaccinations and wellness exams. Technicians support veterinarians in daily operations and patient care.
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Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle
Average Salary: $64,063
Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle offers competitive pay for Registered Veterinary Technicians. They provide specialized care and support in areas like oncology, cardiology, and neurology. Technicians here assist with advanced surgeries and diagnostics.
How to earn more as a Registered Veterinary Technician?
Becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) opens doors to a rewarding career. As demand grows for veterinary services, RVTs can take steps to earn more. They can focus on areas that often lead to higher pay. Some of these areas include specialization, additional certifications, and more experience.
Choosing a specialization can help an RVT earn more. Working in areas like surgery or emergency care often pays higher than general practice. Some RVTs find that earning additional certifications can also boost their pay. Certifications in areas like dental care or laboratory work are highly valued. Gaining more experience also plays a big role. Experienced RVTs usually earn more due to their skills and knowledge.
Here are five factors that can help an RVT earn more:
- Specialization: Working in areas like surgery or emergency care.
- Certifications: Earning certifications in dental care or laboratory work.
- Experience: Gaining more years of experience in the field.
- Location: Working in areas with higher demand for veterinary services.
- Further Education: Pursuing a degree in veterinary technology or a related field.
