New York vs Albany: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between New York, NY and Albany, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Albany, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $164,832▲ | $139,001 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.24▲ | $66.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $107,091▲ | $102,974 |
| 25th Percentile | $130,356▲ | $111,566 |
| 75th Percentile | $215,437▲ | $183,463 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $310,125▲ | $246,282 |
| Total Employed | 3,150▲ | 280 |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Albany.
The salary gap between New York and Albany is $25,831 (18.58%). New York's median is +20.02% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New York spans $203,034,Albany spans $143,308. New York 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, New York ($146,435 effective) pays 4.89% more than Albany ($139,607 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New York if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,832/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($310,125)
- ✓Larger job market (3,150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,435)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Albany if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in New York grew 33.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.0% growth in Albany over the same period.
New York, NY
$117,160 (2019) → $156,150 (2025)
Albany, NY
$117,590 (2019) → $131,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Albany, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: New York or Albany?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Albany?
Should I relocate from New York to Albany as a veterinarian?
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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