Cambridge vs Worcester: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Cambridge, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cambridge, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $143,121▲ | $138,231 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.80▲ | $66.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,010 | $100,578▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $106,930 | $120,001▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $183,195▲ | $178,291 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,839 | $223,196▲ |
| Total Employed | 22 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Cambridge and Worcester are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cambridge and Worcester is $4,890 (3.54%). Cambridge's median is +4.21% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cambridge spans $138,829,Worcester spans $122,618. Cambridge 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, Worcester ($134,829 effective) pays 2.21% more than Cambridge ($131,909 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cambridge if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,121/year)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($223,196)
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,829)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Cambridge grew -10.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 129.0% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Cambridge, MA
$151,895 (2024) → $135,583 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$57,180 (2019) → $130,950 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cambridge, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Cambridge or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cambridge and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Cambridge to Worcester as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Cambridge vs Worcester?
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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