Atlanta vs Rome: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Atlanta, GA and Rome, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Rome, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,151▲ | $131,454 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.46▲ | $63.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,848▲ | $66,133 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,967▲ | $101,053 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,888▲ | $137,724 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,940▲ | $165,845 |
| Total Employed | 1,610▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rome.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Rome is $4,697 (3.57%). 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,Rome spans $99,712. Rome 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, Rome ($145,799 effective) pays 7.15% 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 Rome if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,799)
- ✓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 6.8% growth in Rome over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$93,700 (2019) → $128,980 (2025)
Rome, GA
$116,580 (2023) → $124,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Atlanta or Rome?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Rome?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Rome as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Atlanta vs Rome?
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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