Los Angeles vs Merced: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Merced, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $168,980▲ | $163,841 |
| Hourly Rate | $81.24▲ | $78.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,158 | $95,027▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $128,350▲ | $124,666 |
| 75th Percentile | $223,882▲ | $208,896 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $299,843▲ | $253,953 |
| Total Employed | 2,740▲ | 20 |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Merced.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Merced is $5,139 (3.14%). Los Angeles's median is +23.04% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $228,685,Merced spans $158,926. Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles ($148,795 effective) pays 2.71% more than Merced ($144,864 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,980/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($299,843)
- ✓Larger job market (2,740 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,795)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Merced if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Los Angeles grew 54.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 69.8% growth in Merced over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$103,870 (2019) → $160,080 (2025)
Merced, CA
$91,410 (2019) → $155,211 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Merced, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Los Angeles or Merced?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Merced?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Merced as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Los Angeles vs Merced?
Related Comparisons
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