Aurora vs Champaign: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Aurora, IL and Champaign, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Champaign, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,348▲ | $112,443 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.51▲ | $54.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,241▲ | $55,039 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,627▲ | $88,945 |
| 75th Percentile | $177,085▲ | $136,299 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,440▲ | $175,863 |
| Total Employed | 44 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Aurora, IL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Champaign.
The salary gap between Aurora and Champaign is $25,905 (23.04%). Aurora's median is +0.74% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aurora spans $134,199,Champaign spans $120,824. Aurora 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, Aurora ($142,480 effective) pays 17.47% more than Champaign ($121,293 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,348/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($214,440)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,480)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Champaign if…
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Aurora grew 12.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.7% growth in Champaign over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$116,981 (2024) → $131,061 (2025)
Champaign, IL
$95,380 (2019) → $106,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Champaign, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Aurora or Champaign?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Champaign?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Champaign 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