Apex vs Charlotte: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Apex, NC and Charlotte, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apex, NC | Charlotte, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,176▲ | $136,257 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.95▲ | $65.51 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,563 | $83,329▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $110,225▲ | $104,568 |
| 75th Percentile | $172,515 | $175,008▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $212,623 | $226,289▲ |
| Total Employed | 16 | 750▲ |
Verdict
Apex and Charlotte are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Apex and Charlotte is $919 (0.67%). Apex's median is -0.12% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apex spans $133,060,Charlotte spans $142,960. Charlotte 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, Apex ($146,556 effective) pays 4.71% more than Charlotte ($139,969 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apex if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,176/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,556)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,289)
- ✓Larger job market (750 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Apex grew 23.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.0% growth in Charlotte over the same period.
Apex, NC
$105,540 (2024) → $129,951 (2025)
Charlotte, NC
$104,960 (2019) → $129,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Apex or Charlotte?
What is the hourly rate difference between Apex and Charlotte?
Should I relocate from Apex to Charlotte as a veterinarian?
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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