Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Veterinarians in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $131,800 | $100,100 | $171,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $163,800 | $124,400 | $212,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $188,300 | $143,100 | $244,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $225,900 | $171,700 | $293,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $256,000 | $194,600 | $332,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Veterinarians — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Veterinarian salary in the Washington metro is $188,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $143,100 to $244,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $310,700 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Veterinarians. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Veterinarians — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Veterinarian salary of $188,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Veterinarians in Washington start around $131,800, while seniors (10+ years) reach $225,900 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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