Lawrence vs Topeka: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Lawrence, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawrence, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,233▲ | $113,994 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.69▲ | $54.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,215 | $84,976▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $102,110▲ | $90,243 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,431▲ | $133,755 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $195,661 | $216,504▲ |
| Total Employed | 22 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Lawrence and Topeka are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lawrence and Topeka is $12,239 (10.74%). Lawrence's median is -8.08% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lawrence spans $122,446,Topeka spans $131,528. Topeka 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, Lawrence ($138,870 effective) pays 8.20% more than Topeka ($128,343 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($126,233/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $138,870)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,504)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Lawrence grew 59.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -9.5% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Lawrence, KS
$74,780 (2019) → $119,584 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$119,310 (2019) → $107,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Lawrence or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawrence and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Lawrence to Topeka as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Lawrence vs Topeka?
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