Healthcare Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Veterinarian Salary in Massachusetts

The median veterinarian salary in Massachusetts is $147,662 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $103,260.

Median Salary
$147,662
vs National
+$44,402
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Veterinarian Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for veterinarian compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for veterinarians seeking high pay. At $147,662 per year, veterinarians in Massachusetts earn $44,402 more than the national median of $103,260.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $147,662 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $109,379.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: veterinarians at the 10th percentile earn $93,236, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $249,106 — a $155,870 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $173,477.

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 Massachusetts and beyond.

Veterinarian Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level veterinarian earns around $97,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $221,650 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$97,240
+$29,240 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$150,150
+$45,150 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$221,650
+$66,650 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $93,236
25th Percentile $114,972
Median (50th) $147,662
75th Percentile $192,192
90th Percentile $249,106

Veterinarian Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for veterinarians in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Veterinarian in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

DiagnosisSurgeryPharmacologyAnimal HandlingClient CommunicationRadiology

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

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

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Data shows Veterinarians who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $73,988 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Veterinarian Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Veterinarian make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median veterinarian salary in Massachusetts is $147,662 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $103,260. Salaries range from $93,236 (10th percentile) to $249,106 (90th percentile).
How much does a Veterinarian make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $147,662, a veterinarian in Massachusetts earns approximately $71 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for veterinarians? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for veterinarian pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level veterinarians earn $97,240, while senior professionals earn $221,650.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for veterinarian salary? ▼
The highest paying state for veterinarians is Hawaii at $183,803. Massachusetts's median of $147,662 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($183,803) and California ($150,760).
What is the entry-level veterinarian salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level veterinarian in Massachusetts earns approximately $97,240 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $150,150. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $221,650.
What city in Massachusetts pays veterinarians the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for veterinarians, with a median salary of $173,477. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.