Dover vs Middletown: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Dover, DE and Middletown, DE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dover, DE | Middletown, DE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,226▲ | $123,280 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.57▲ | $59.27 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,690▲ | $72,829 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,637▲ | $96,983 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,714▲ | $152,611 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $204,950▲ | $191,085 |
| Total Employed | 7▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Dover, DE offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Middletown.
The salary gap between Dover and Middletown is $8,946 (7.26%). Dover's median is -3.72% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dover spans $128,260,Middletown spans $118,256. Dover 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, Dover ($130,016 effective) pays 7.26% more than Middletown ($121,219 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dover if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,226/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($204,950)
- ✓Larger job market (7 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $130,016)
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Choose Middletown if…
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Dover grew 7.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.9% growth in Middletown over the same period.
Dover, DE
$116,910 (2019) → $125,261 (2025)
Middletown, DE
$114,638 (2024) → $116,787 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Middletown, DE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Dover or Middletown?
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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