Seattle vs Mount Vernon: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Seattle, WA and Mount Vernon, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Mount Vernon, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $172,918▲ | $165,708 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.14▲ | $79.67 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $104,779▲ | $103,438 |
| 25th Percentile | $136,099▲ | $125,194 |
| 75th Percentile | $213,231▲ | $205,103 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $289,266 | $331,268▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,330▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Mount Vernon.
The salary gap between Seattle and Mount Vernon is $7,210 (4.35%). Seattle's median is +25.91% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $184,487,Mount Vernon spans $227,830. Mount Vernon 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, Mount Vernon ($161,756 effective) pays 3.96% more than Seattle ($155,596 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($172,918/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,330 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Mount Vernon if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($331,268)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $161,756)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Seattle grew 69.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 65.0% growth in Mount Vernon over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$96,460 (2019) → $163,810 (2025)
Mount Vernon, WA
$95,140 (2019) → $156,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Mount Vernon, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Seattle or Mount Vernon?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Mount Vernon?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Mount Vernon as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Seattle vs Mount Vernon?
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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