Austin vs Copperas Cove: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Austin, TX and Copperas Cove, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Copperas Cove, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,659▲ | $126,244 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.62▲ | $60.70 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,085▲ | $78,937 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,350▲ | $99,884 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,118▲ | $160,808 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $223,544▲ | $195,679 |
| Total Employed | 700▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Copperas Cove.
The salary gap between Austin and Copperas Cove is $14,415 (11.42%). Austin's median is +2.42% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $133,459,Copperas Cove spans $116,742. Austin 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, Austin ($143,433 effective) pays 9.07% more than Copperas Cove ($131,504 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,659/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($223,544)
- ✓Larger job market (700 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,433)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Copperas Cove if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Austin grew 29.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.2% growth in Copperas Cove over the same period.
Austin, TX
$103,070 (2019) → $133,250 (2025)
Copperas Cove, TX
$109,517 (2024) → $119,595 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Copperas Cove, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Austin or Copperas Cove?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Copperas Cove?
Should I relocate from Austin to Copperas Cove as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Austin vs Copperas Cove?
Related Comparisons
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