San Diego vs Westminster: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between San Diego, CA and Westminster, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Diego, CA | Westminster, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $168,632 | $170,452▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $81.07 | $81.95▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,295 | $98,862▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $131,454▲ | $131,301 |
| 75th Percentile | $210,677 | $218,179▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $291,588▲ | $264,201 |
| Total Employed | 1,080▲ | 21 |
Verdict
San Diego and Westminster are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between San Diego and Westminster is $1,820 (1.08%). Westminster's median is +24.11% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Diego spans $220,293,Westminster spans $165,339. San Diego 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, San Diego ($150,716 effective) pays 0.00% more than Westminster ($150,709 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($291,588)
- ✓Larger job market (1,080 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,716)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Westminster if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($170,452/year)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in San Diego grew 46.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -9.5% growth in Westminster over the same period.
San Diego, CA
$109,440 (2019) → $159,750 (2025)
Westminster, CA
$178,340 (2024) → $161,474 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Diego, CA
Westminster, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: San Diego or Westminster?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Diego and Westminster?
Should I relocate from San Diego to Westminster as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in San Diego vs Westminster?
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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