Acupuncturists vs. Animal Caretakers: Who Earns More?
Acupuncturists out-earn Animal Caretakers by $41K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Acupuncturists land at $76,040 and Animal Caretakers at $35,360. The education gap is real: acupuncturist programs typically require master's degree, while animal caretaker programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Acupuncturists is Tennessee ($141,430); for Animal Caretakers it's District of Columbia ($44,210).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Acupuncturists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Acupuncturists or Animal Caretakers?
Acupuncturists earn more nationally. The median is $76,040 for Acupuncturists versus $35,360 for Animal Caretakers, a difference of $41K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Acupuncturists or Animal Caretakers?
Animal Caretakers has the better 10-year outlook at 12.1% projected growth, compared to 6.8% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Acupuncturists or Animal Caretakers?
Acupuncturists typically requires master's degree. Animal Caretakers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Acupuncturists get paid the most?
Tennessee is the top-paying state for Acupuncturists at $141,430/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Acupuncturists vs. Animal Caretakers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Jersey, Acupuncturists earn $125,260 vs. $35,850 for Animal Caretakers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.