Atlanta vs Albany: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Atlanta, GA and Albany, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Albany, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,151▲ | $128,678 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.46▲ | $61.86 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,848▲ | $63,663 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,967▲ | $103,523 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,888▲ | $135,286 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,940▲ | $158,804 |
| Total Employed | 1,610▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Albany.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Albany is $7,473 (5.81%). Atlanta's median is -0.86% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $96,092,Albany spans $95,141. Atlanta 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 ($146,777 effective) pays 7.87% more than Atlanta ($136,072 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,151/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,940)
- ✓Larger job market (1,610 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,777)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Atlanta grew 37.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 46.1% growth in Albany over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$93,700 (2019) → $128,980 (2025)
Albany, GA
$83,430 (2019) → $121,900 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Albany, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Atlanta or Albany?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Albany?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Albany as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Atlanta vs Albany?
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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