Boise vs Caldwell: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Boise, ID and Caldwell, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boise, ID | Caldwell, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,663▲ | $131,907 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.23▲ | $63.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,684▲ | $76,506 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,658 | $106,168▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $173,648▲ | $166,065 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,277▲ | $204,455 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Boise, ID offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Caldwell.
The salary gap between Boise and Caldwell is $3,756 (2.85%). Boise's median is -1.22% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boise spans $131,593,Caldwell spans $127,949. Boise 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, Boise ($142,354 effective) pays 2.85% more than Caldwell ($138,412 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boise if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,663/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($210,277)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,354)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Caldwell if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Boise grew 16.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.2% growth in Caldwell over the same period.
Boise, ID
$110,637 (2024) → $128,517 (2025)
Caldwell, ID
$107,575 (2024) → $124,959 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Caldwell, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Boise or Caldwell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boise and Caldwell?
Should I relocate from Boise to Caldwell 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