How to Become a Veterinary Technologists and Technicians in California
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians in California earn a median salary of $55,080/year, which is 20% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.9%. After taxes and rent, a veterinary technologists and technicians takes home approximately $2,313/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a veterinary technologists and technicians can afford in California
Becoming a veterinary technologists and technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinary technologists and technicians 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 technologists and technicianss. 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 11,380 veterinary technologists and technicians. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $66K | $31.88/hr | 1,220 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $60K | $28.94/hr | 450 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $58K | $27.94/hr | 990 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $58K | $27.89/hr | 290 |
| Vallejo | $58K | $27.7/hr | 120 |
| Chico | $58K | $27.69/hr | 70 |
| Napa | $57K | $27.55/hr | 40 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $57K | $27.44/hr | 150 |
| Salinas | $56K | $26.92/hr | 120 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $52K | $25.04/hr | 1,270 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $50K | $24.22/hr | 360 |
| Modesto | $50K | $24.21/hr | 150 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $50K | $23.94/hr | 3,750 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $49K | $23.73/hr | 160 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $49K | $23.64/hr | 140 |
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians salary range in California
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinary technologists and technicians make in California?▼
The median veterinary technologists and technicians salary in California is $55,080 per year ($26.48/hr). This is 20% above the national median of $45,980. Salaries range from $41,020 to $74,390.
What are the requirements to become a veterinary technologists and technicians in California?▼
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinary technologists and technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $55,080, a veterinary technologists and technicians in California would take home approximately $3,725/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinary technologists and technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinary technologists and technicians in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($66,300), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($60,180), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($58,120). 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 technologists and technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.9%. On a $55,080 salary, this means roughly $1,595/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.