Champaign vs Waukegan: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Champaign, IL and Waukegan, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Champaign, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $112,443 | $140,302▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $54.06 | $67.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,039 | $81,375▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,945 | $106,487▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $136,299 | $178,615▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,863 | $217,468▲ |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Waukegan, IL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Champaign.
The salary gap between Champaign and Waukegan is $27,859 (24.78%). Waukegan's median is +2.16% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Champaign spans $120,824,Waukegan spans $136,093. Waukegan has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinarians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Waukegan ($144,492 effective) pays 19.13% more than Champaign ($121,293 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Champaign if…
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Waukegan if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,302/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($217,468)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,492)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Champaign grew 11.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.0% growth in Waukegan over the same period.
Champaign, IL
$95,380 (2019) → $106,520 (2025)
Waukegan, IL
$118,633 (2024) → $132,912 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Champaign, IL
Waukegan, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Champaign or Waukegan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Champaign and Waukegan?
Should I relocate from Champaign to Waukegan as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Champaign vs Waukegan?
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