Akron vs Columbus: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Akron, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Akron, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,619▲ | $130,124 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.17▲ | $62.55 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,900▲ | $50,658 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,663▲ | $82,717 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,123▲ | $150,296 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $224,959▲ | $219,976 |
| Total Employed | 230 | 850▲ |
Verdict
Akron, OH offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Akron and Columbus is $7,495 (5.76%). Akron's median is +0.21% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Akron spans $163,059,Columbus spans $169,318. Columbus has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinarians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Akron ($147,391 effective) pays 8.14% more than Columbus ($136,300 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Akron if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,619/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($224,959)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $147,391)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Larger job market (850 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Akron grew 11.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.2% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Akron, OH
$116,650 (2019) → $130,370 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$104,300 (2019) → $123,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Akron or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Akron and Columbus?
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Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov