Agriculture & Environment New Mexico (NM) Rank #28 of 50

Veterinary Technician Salary in New Mexico

The median veterinary technician salary in New Mexico is $35,573 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $38,250.

Median Salary
$35,573
vs National
$-2,677
State Rank
#28 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Veterinary Technician Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for veterinary technician compensation. Veterinary Technician salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $35,573 per year, veterinary technicians in New Mexico earn $2,677 less than the national median of $38,250.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $35,573 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,251 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: veterinary technicians at the 10th percentile earn $25,110, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $51,150 — a $26,040 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Mexico for this role is Santa Fe, where the median reaches $42,075.

Nationally, veterinary technician employment is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in New Mexico and beyond.

Veterinary Technician Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level veterinary technician earns around $26,970, while experienced professionals earn up to $49,290 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$26,970
$-2,030 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$36,270
$-2,730 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$49,290
$-3,710 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $25,110
25th Percentile $29,760
Median (50th) $35,573
75th Percentile $42,780
90th Percentile $51,150

Veterinary Technician Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for veterinary technicians in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Veterinary Technician in New Mexico

Education

Most veterinary technician positions require a associate's degree. New Mexico has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Animal CareLab TechniquesRadiologyAnesthesiaMedical RecordsClient Communication

Job Outlook in New Mexico

Nationally, veterinary technician employment is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). New Mexico's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Veterinary Technician Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Veterinary Technician make in New Mexico? ▼
The median veterinary technician salary in New Mexico is $35,573 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $38,250. Salaries range from $25,110 (10th percentile) to $51,150 (90th percentile).
How much does a Veterinary Technician make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $35,573, a veterinary technician in New Mexico earns approximately $17 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for veterinary technicians? ▼
New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for veterinary technician pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level veterinary technicians earn $26,970, while senior professionals earn $49,290.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for veterinary technician salary? ▼
The highest paying state for veterinary technicians is Hawaii at $65,025. New Mexico's median of $35,573 ranks #28 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Idaho ($35,955) and Georgia ($35,573).
What is the entry-level veterinary technician salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level veterinary technician in New Mexico earns approximately $26,970 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $36,270. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $49,290.
What city in New Mexico pays veterinary technicians the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for veterinary technicians, with a median salary of $42,075. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.