Veterinary Technician Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median veterinary technician salary in Columbia, MO is $33,660 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Veterinary Technician Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median veterinary technician salary of $33,660, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $33,660. Compared to the national median of $38,250, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $33,660 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $38,250 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for veterinary technicians seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for veterinary technicians in Columbia spans from $23,760 at the 10th percentile to $48,400 at the 90th percentile — a $24,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $25,520, while senior veterinary technicians with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $46,640. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Veterinary Technician Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level veterinary technician earns around $25,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $46,640 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,160 |
| Median (50th) | $33,660 |
| 75th Percentile | $40,480 |
| 90th Percentile | $48,400 |
Veterinary Technician Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Veterinary Technician in Columbia
Education
Most veterinary technician positions require a associate's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, veterinary technician employment is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Veterinary Technician Jobs in Columbia
Browse open veterinary technician positions in Columbia, MO: