Appleton vs Superior: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Appleton, WI and Superior, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Superior, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,682▲ | $109,045 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.70▲ | $52.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,482▲ | $66,340 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,471▲ | $87,338 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,861 | $139,577▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $164,336 | $169,020▲ |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Superior.
The salary gap between Appleton and Superior is $2,637 (2.42%). Appleton's median is -18.68% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Appleton spans $78,854,Superior spans $102,680. Superior 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, Appleton ($120,843 effective) pays 3.51% more than Superior ($116,751 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Appleton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($111,682/year)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,843)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Superior if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($169,020)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Appleton grew 22.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.4% growth in Superior over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$86,070 (2019) → $105,800 (2025)
Superior, WI
$101,881 (2024) → $103,301 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Superior, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Appleton or Superior?
What is the hourly rate difference between Appleton and Superior?
Should I relocate from Appleton to Superior as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Appleton vs Superior?
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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