Columbus vs Dayton: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Columbus, OH and Dayton, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Dayton, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,124 | $136,204▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.55 | $65.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,658 | $78,896▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,717 | $104,272▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $150,296 | $168,189▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $219,976▲ | $219,491 |
| Total Employed | 850▲ | 220 |
Verdict
Columbus and Dayton are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Dayton is $6,080 (4.67%). Dayton's median is -0.82% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $169,318,Dayton spans $140,595. Columbus 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, Dayton ($146,939 effective) pays 7.81% more than Columbus ($136,300 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($219,976)
- ✓Larger job market (850 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Dayton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,204/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,939)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Columbus grew 18.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.5% growth in Dayton over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$104,300 (2019) → $123,270 (2025)
Dayton, OH
$113,650 (2019) → $129,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Dayton, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Columbus or Dayton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Dayton?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Dayton as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Columbus vs Dayton?
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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