Bettendorf vs Cedar Rapids: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Bettendorf, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bettendorf, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $128,754 | $134,230▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $61.90 | $64.53▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,009 | $80,342▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $102,886▲ | $98,118 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,804▲ | $162,594 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $199,569▲ | $177,562 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids, IA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bettendorf.
The salary gap between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids is $5,476 (4.25%). Cedar Rapids's median is -2.26% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bettendorf spans $121,560,Cedar Rapids spans $97,220. Bettendorf 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, Cedar Rapids ($150,883 effective) pays 5.94% more than Bettendorf ($142,427 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bettendorf if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($199,569)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,230/year)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,883)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Bettendorf grew 30.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 45.6% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Bettendorf, IA
$93,275 (2024) → $121,972 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$87,350 (2019) → $127,160 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bettendorf, IA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Bettendorf or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Bettendorf to Cedar Rapids as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Bettendorf vs Cedar Rapids?
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