Somerville vs Worcester: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Somerville, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Somerville, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,370▲ | $138,231 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.41▲ | $66.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,734 | $100,578▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $111,709 | $120,001▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $182,768▲ | $178,291 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $223,773▲ | $223,196 |
| Total Employed | 20 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Somerville, MA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Worcester.
The salary gap between Somerville and Worcester is $6,139 (4.44%). Somerville's median is +5.12% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Somerville spans $140,039,Worcester spans $122,618. Somerville 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, Worcester ($134,829 effective) pays 1.33% more than Somerville ($133,060 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Somerville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,370/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($223,773)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,829)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Somerville grew -12.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 129.0% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Somerville, MA
$156,172 (2024) → $136,766 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$57,180 (2019) → $130,950 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Somerville, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Somerville or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Somerville and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Somerville to Worcester as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Somerville vs Worcester?
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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