Buffalo vs Oneonta: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Buffalo, NY and Oneonta, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Buffalo, NY | Oneonta, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,589▲ | $125,638 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.71▲ | $60.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,854▲ | $79,679 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,713▲ | $103,205 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,507▲ | $156,968 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $215,205▲ | $194,738 |
| Total Employed | 230▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Buffalo, NY offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Oneonta.
The salary gap between Buffalo and Oneonta is $8,951 (7.12%). Buffalo's median is -2.00% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Buffalo spans $117,351,Oneonta spans $115,059. Buffalo 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, Buffalo ($140,425 effective) pays 29.54% more than Oneonta ($108,402 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,589/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($215,205)
- ✓Larger job market (230 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $140,425)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Oneonta if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Buffalo grew 12.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -17.9% growth in Oneonta over the same period.
Buffalo, NY
$113,880 (2019) → $127,500 (2025)
Oneonta, NY
$144,931 (2024) → $119,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Buffalo, NY
Oneonta, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Buffalo or Oneonta?
What is the hourly rate difference between Buffalo and Oneonta?
Should I relocate from Buffalo to Oneonta as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Buffalo vs Oneonta?
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