Columbus vs Lima: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Columbus, OH and Lima, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Lima, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,124 | $132,208▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.55 | $63.56▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,658 | $82,352▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,717 | $107,412▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $150,296 | $163,416▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $219,976▲ | $204,922 |
| Total Employed | 850▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Columbus and Lima are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Lima is $2,084 (1.60%). Lima's median is -3.73% 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,Lima spans $122,570. 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, Lima ($145,764 effective) pays 6.94% 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 Lima if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,208/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,764)
- ✓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 25.3% growth in Lima over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$104,300 (2019) → $123,270 (2025)
Lima, OH
$99,928 (2024) → $125,244 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Columbus or Lima?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Lima?
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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