How to Become a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Florida
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Florida earn a median salary of $37,200/year, which is 0% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers takes home approximately $1,249/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can afford in Florida
Becoming a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Florida
Meet education requirements
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 7,060 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $38K | $18.32/hr | 120 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $38K | $18.23/hr | 1,610 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $38K | $18.09/hr | 220 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $37K | $18.02/hr | 1,120 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $37K | $17.84/hr | 840 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $37K | $17.75/hr | 250 |
| Jacksonville | $37K | $17.64/hr | 640 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $37K | $17.59/hr | 220 |
| Port St. Lucie | $36K | $17.55/hr | 150 |
| Punta Gorda | $36K | $17.34/hr | 60 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $36K | $17.28/hr | 210 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $36K | $17.24/hr | 90 |
| Gainesville | $36K | $17.23/hr | 160 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $36K | $17.18/hr | 180 |
| Tallahassee | $35K | $16.94/hr | 200 |
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary range in Florida
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 Florida?▼
The median veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers salary in Florida is $37,200 per year ($17.89/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $37,320. Salaries range from $29,350 to $45,650.
What are the requirements to become a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Florida?▼
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $37,200, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Florida would take home approximately $2,661/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 53.1% 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 Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($38,110), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($37,920), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($37,620). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.