Albany vs Auburn: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Albany, NY and Auburn, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albany, NY | Auburn, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,001▲ | $127,955 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.83▲ | $61.52 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,974▲ | $76,308 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,566▲ | $101,449 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,463▲ | $163,240 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $246,282▲ | $198,329 |
| Total Employed | 280▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Albany, NY offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Auburn.
The salary gap between Albany and Auburn is $11,046 (8.63%). Albany's median is +1.21% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albany spans $143,308,Auburn spans $122,021. Albany has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Albany ($139,607 effective) pays 26.45% more than Auburn ($110,401 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,001/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($246,282)
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,607)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Auburn if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Albany grew 12.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -17.9% growth in Auburn over the same period.
Albany, NY
$117,590 (2019) → $131,680 (2025)
Auburn, NY
$147,604 (2024) → $121,215 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albany, NY
Auburn, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Albany or Auburn?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albany and Auburn?
Should I relocate from Albany to Auburn as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Albany vs Auburn?
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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