How to Become a Veterinarians in California
Veterinarians in California earn a median salary of $158,950/year, which is 27% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.9%. After taxes and rent, a veterinarians takes home approximately $7,628/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a veterinarians can afford in California
Becoming a veterinarians in California
Meet education requirements
Veterinarians positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinarians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for veterinarianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 8,510 veterinarians. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Napa.
Veterinarians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $188K | $90.38/hr | 1,220 |
| Napa | $179K | $86.1/hr | 30 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $175K | $84.16/hr | 340 |
| Salinas | $168K | $80.93/hr | 90 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $163K | $78.55/hr | 210 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $162K | $77.9/hr | 270 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $161K | $77.58/hr | 120 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $160K | $76.73/hr | 100 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $159K | $76.3/hr | 660 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $159K | $76.3/hr | 110 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $158K | $76.16/hr | 850 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $158K | $76.09/hr | 1,000 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $158K | $75.89/hr | 130 |
| Modesto | $157K | $75.62/hr | 130 |
| Chico | $156K | $75.02/hr | 70 |
Veterinarians salary range in California
Veterinarians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinarians make in California?▼
The median veterinarians salary in California is $158,950 per year ($76.42/hr). This is 27% above the national median of $125,510. Salaries range from $79,710 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a veterinarians in California?▼
Veterinarians positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinarians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $158,950, a veterinarians in California would take home approximately $9,040/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinarians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinarians in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($187,990), Napa ($179,080), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($175,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for veterinarians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.9%. On a $158,950 salary, this means roughly $10,920/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.