New Haven vs Waterbury: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between New Haven, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Haven, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,663 | $139,371▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.74 | $67.01▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,639 | $88,026▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $113,245 | $113,625▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $177,784 | $220,166▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $236,634 | $309,217▲ |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Waterbury, CT offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to New Haven.
The salary gap between New Haven and Waterbury is $4,708 (3.50%). Waterbury's median is +1.48% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Haven spans $188,995,Waterbury spans $221,191. Waterbury 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, Waterbury ($139,681 effective) pays 8.46% more than New Haven ($128,791 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Waterbury if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,371/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($309,217)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,681)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in New Haven grew 33.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.5% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
New Haven, CT
$95,920 (2019) → $127,570 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$101,180 (2021) → $132,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Haven, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: New Haven or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Haven and Waterbury?
Should I relocate from New Haven to Waterbury as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in New Haven vs Waterbury?
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