Hayward vs Los Angeles: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Hayward, CA and Los Angeles, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hayward, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $170,843▲ | $168,980 |
| Hourly Rate | $82.14▲ | $81.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $99,089▲ | $71,158 |
| 25th Percentile | $136,817▲ | $128,350 |
| 75th Percentile | $218,678 | $223,882▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $264,806 | $299,843▲ |
| Total Employed | 23 | 2,740▲ |
Verdict
Hayward and Los Angeles are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Hayward and Los Angeles is $1,863 (1.10%). Hayward's median is +24.40% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hayward spans $165,717,Los Angeles spans $228,685. Los Angeles 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, Hayward ($151,055 effective) pays 1.52% more than Los Angeles ($148,795 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hayward if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($170,843/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,055)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($299,843)
- ✓Larger job market (2,740 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Hayward grew -9.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 54.1% growth in Los Angeles over the same period.
Hayward, CA
$178,749 (2024) → $161,844 (2025)
Los Angeles, CA
$103,870 (2019) → $160,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hayward, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Hayward or Los Angeles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hayward and Los Angeles?
Should I relocate from Hayward to Los Angeles as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Hayward vs Los Angeles?
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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