Kent vs Seattle: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kent, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $166,903 | $172,918▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $80.25 | $83.14▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,066 | $104,779▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $130,743 | $136,099▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $213,635▲ | $213,231 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $258,700 | $289,266▲ |
| Total Employed | 33 | 1,330▲ |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Kent.
The salary gap between Kent and Seattle is $6,015 (3.60%). Seattle's median is +25.91% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kent spans $161,634,Seattle spans $184,487. Seattle 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, Seattle ($155,596 effective) pays 0.12% more than Kent ($155,403 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kent if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($172,918/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($289,266)
- ✓Larger job market (1,330 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,596)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Kent grew 3.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 69.8% growth in Seattle over the same period.
Kent, WA
$152,240 (2024) → $158,112 (2025)
Seattle, WA
$96,460 (2019) → $163,810 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Kent or Seattle?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kent and Seattle?
Should I relocate from Kent to Seattle as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Kent vs Seattle?
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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