How to Become a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in California
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in California earn a median salary of $45,470/year, which is 22% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.2%. After taxes and rent, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers takes home approximately $1,718/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can afford in California
Becoming a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in California
Meet education requirements
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers 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 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakerss. 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 14,960 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $47K | $22.61/hr | 2,410 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $47K | $22.57/hr | 550 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $47K | $22.42/hr | 1,590 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $46K | $22.25/hr | 320 |
| Salinas | $46K | $21.99/hr | 140 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $46K | $21.9/hr | 170 |
| Vallejo | $45K | $21.81/hr | 140 |
| Napa | $45K | $21.77/hr | 50 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $45K | $21.56/hr | 1,640 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $45K | $21.52/hr | 430 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $44K | $21.31/hr | 4,610 |
| Chico | $44K | $21/hr | 90 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $43K | $20.84/hr | 170 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $42K | $20.13/hr | 190 |
| Merced | $39K | $18.81/hr | 50 |
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary range in California
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers make in California?▼
The median veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers salary in California is $45,470 per year ($21.86/hr). This is 22% above the national median of $37,320. Salaries range from $37,230 to $58,550.
What are the requirements to become a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in California?▼
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $45,470, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in California would take home approximately $3,130/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($47,040), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($46,950), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($46,620). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.2%. On a $45,470 salary, this means roughly $1,019/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.