Aurora vs Chicago: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Aurora, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,348 | $156,999▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.51 | $75.49▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,241 | $85,261▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,627 | $120,908▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $177,085 | $207,352▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $214,440 | $305,396▲ |
| Total Employed | 44 | 1,530▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Aurora.
The salary gap between Aurora and Chicago is $18,651 (13.48%). Chicago's median is +14.32% 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,Chicago spans $220,135. Chicago 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, Chicago ($151,551 effective) pays 6.37% more than Aurora ($142,480 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($156,999/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($305,396)
- ✓Larger job market (1,530 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,551)
- ✓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 52.2% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$116,981 (2024) → $131,061 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$97,690 (2019) → $148,730 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Aurora or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Chicago as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Aurora vs Chicago?
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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