Austin vs Minneapolis: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Austin, MN and Minneapolis, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,794 | $166,996▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.40 | $80.29▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,281 | $91,373▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,277 | $128,720▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $162,017 | $177,858▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,182 | $230,997▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 1,470▲ |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Austin.
The salary gap between Austin and Minneapolis is $37,202 (28.66%). Minneapolis's median is +21.60% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $125,901,Minneapolis spans $139,624. Minneapolis 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, Minneapolis ($159,314 effective) pays 20.90% more than Austin ($131,771 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($166,996/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($230,997)
- ✓Larger job market (1,470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $159,314)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Austin grew 6.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 65.7% growth in Minneapolis over the same period.
Austin, MN
$115,523 (2024) → $122,958 (2025)
Minneapolis, MN
$95,460 (2019) → $158,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Austin or Minneapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Minneapolis?
Should I relocate from Austin to Minneapolis as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Austin vs Minneapolis?
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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