How to Become a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Texas
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Texas earn a median salary of $30,430/year, which is 18% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers takes home approximately $795/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can afford in Texas
Becoming a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Texas
Meet education requirements
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in Texas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 8,040 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in Midland and Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midland | $36K | $17.26/hr | 30 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $34K | $16.49/hr | 2,080 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $34K | $16.42/hr | 2,220 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $34K | $16.22/hr | 850 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $32K | $15.25/hr | 850 |
| Wichita Falls | $30K | $14.38/hr | 30 |
| Waco | $29K | $13.85/hr | 40 |
| College Station-Bryan | $29K | $13.78/hr | 380 |
| Corpus Christi | $29K | $13.77/hr | 80 |
| Amarillo | $29K | $13.77/hr | 110 |
| Killeen-Temple | $29K | $13.74/hr | 100 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $28K | $13.63/hr | 80 |
| El Paso | $28K | $13.38/hr | 120 |
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary range in Texas
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 Texas?▼
The median veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers salary in Texas is $30,430 per year ($14.63/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $37,320. Salaries range from $22,040 to $46,020.
What are the requirements to become a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Texas?▼
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in Texas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $30,430, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Texas would take home approximately $2,207/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 64% 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 Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Texas are Midland ($35,900), Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($34,300), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($34,140). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers?▼
No, Texas 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.