Healthcare Connecticut (CT) Rank #8 of 50

Veterinarian Salary in Connecticut

The median veterinarian salary in Connecticut is $119,782 per year, which is 16.0% above the national median of $103,260.

Median Salary
$119,782
vs National
+$16,522
State Rank
#8 of 50
Cost of Living
112%

Veterinarian Salary Overview in Connecticut (2026)

Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for veterinarian compensation. This places Connecticut in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for veterinarians seeking high pay. At $119,782 per year, veterinarians in Connecticut earn $16,522 more than the national median of $103,260.

It's worth noting that Connecticut's cost of living is 112% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $119,782 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $106,948.

The salary spread in Connecticut is significant: veterinarians at the 10th percentile earn $75,632, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $202,072 — a $126,440 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Connecticut for this role is Stamford, where the median reaches $146,629.

Nationally, veterinarian employment is projected to grow 19% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Connecticut and beyond.

Veterinarian Salary in Connecticut by Experience

In Connecticut, an entry-level veterinarian earns around $78,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $179,800 per year. The cost of living index in Connecticut is 112% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$78,880
+$10,880 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$121,800
+$16,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$179,800
+$24,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Connecticut

Percentile CT Salary
10th Percentile $75,632
25th Percentile $93,264
Median (50th) $119,782
75th Percentile $155,904
90th Percentile $202,072

Veterinarian Salary by City in Connecticut

The largest employment areas for veterinarians in Connecticut include Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, and Stamford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Veterinarian in Connecticut

Education

Most veterinarian positions require a doctoral degree. Connecticut has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

DiagnosisSurgeryPharmacologyAnimal HandlingClient CommunicationRadiology

Job Outlook in Connecticut

Nationally, veterinarian employment is projected to grow 19% over the next decade (much faster than average). Connecticut's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Veterinarian Salary in Connecticut

How much does a Veterinarian make in Connecticut? ▼
The median veterinarian salary in Connecticut is $119,782 per year, which is 16.0% above the national median of $103,260. Salaries range from $75,632 (10th percentile) to $202,072 (90th percentile).
How much does a Veterinarian make per hour in Connecticut? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $119,782, a veterinarian in Connecticut earns approximately $58 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Connecticut a good state for veterinarians? ▼
Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for veterinarian pay. The cost of living index is 112% of the national average. Entry-level veterinarians earn $78,880, while senior professionals earn $179,800.
How does Connecticut compare to other states for veterinarian salary? ▼
The highest paying state for veterinarians is Hawaii at $183,803. Connecticut's median of $119,782 ranks #8 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Jersey ($123,912) and Washington ($122,879).
What is the entry-level veterinarian salary in Connecticut? ▼
An entry-level veterinarian in Connecticut earns approximately $78,880 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $121,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $179,800.
What city in Connecticut pays veterinarians the most? ▼
Stamford is the highest paying city in Connecticut for veterinarians, with a median salary of $146,629. Other cities include Bridgeport and New Haven.