Animal Trainers vs. Childcare Workers: Who Earns More?
Animal Trainers out-earn Childcare Workers by $5K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Animal Trainers land at $39,990 and Childcare Workers at $34,980. The education gap is real: animal trainer programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while childcare worker programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Animal Trainers is Virginia ($62,960); for Childcare Workers it's District of Columbia ($47,340).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Animal Trainers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Animal Trainers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Trainers earn more nationally. The median is $39,990 for Animal Trainers versus $34,980 for Childcare Workers, a difference of $5K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Animal Trainers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Trainers has the better 10-year outlook at 5.1% projected growth, compared to -2.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Animal Trainers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Trainers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Childcare Workers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Animal Trainers get paid the most?
Virginia is the top-paying state for Animal Trainers at $62,960/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Animal Trainers vs. Childcare Workers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Animal Trainers earn $55,520 vs. $38,650 for Childcare Workers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.