SOC 31-9096 · National · May 2024 OEWS Data
The national median salary for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers is $37,315 per year ($17.94/hr) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2024. The middle 50% of earners make between $34,320 and $44,554 annually. Top earners at the 90th percentile reach $48,152 per year. There are approximately 114,190 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers employed in the United States.
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| P10 | $14.02 | $29,162 |
| P25 | $16.50 | $34,320 |
| P50MEDIAN | $17.94 | $37,315 |
| P75 | $21.42 | $44,554 |
| P90 | $23.15 | $48,152 |
Health Care openings declined 78K and hiring fell 103K in February, but the sector remains the hottest talent market. Openings rate still leads all sectors. Compensation pressure continues, though moderating from 2025 peaks.
The national median salary for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers is $37,315 per year ($17.94/hr) according to BLS OEWS May 2024 data. The middle 50% earn between $34,320 and $44,554 annually.
The 90th percentile salary for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers is $48,152 per year ($23.15/hr). The 75th percentile is $44,554 per year.
Entry-level Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers (10th percentile) earn approximately $29,162 per year ($14.02/hr). The 25th percentile is $34,320 per year.
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