Chicago vs Waukegan: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Chicago, IL and Waukegan, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $156,999▲ | $140,302 |
| Hourly Rate | $75.49▲ | $67.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,261▲ | $81,375 |
| 25th Percentile | $120,908▲ | $106,487 |
| 75th Percentile | $207,352▲ | $178,615 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $305,396▲ | $217,468 |
| Total Employed | 1,530▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waukegan.
The salary gap between Chicago and Waukegan is $16,697 (11.90%). Chicago's median is +14.32% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $220,135,Waukegan spans $136,093. Chicago 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, Chicago ($151,551 effective) pays 4.89% more than Waukegan ($144,492 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($156,999/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($305,396)
- ✓Larger job market (1,530 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,551)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Waukegan if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Chicago grew 52.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.0% growth in Waukegan over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$97,690 (2019) → $148,730 (2025)
Waukegan, IL
$118,633 (2024) → $132,912 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Waukegan, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Chicago or Waukegan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Waukegan?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Waukegan as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Chicago vs Waukegan?
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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