Veterinarians vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Veterinarians out-earn Registered Nurses by $33K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Veterinarians land at $130,100 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: veterinarian programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Veterinarians is California ($163,920); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Veterinarians median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Veterinarians or Registered Nurses?
Veterinarians earn more nationally. The median is $130,100 for Veterinarians versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $33K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Veterinarians or Registered Nurses?
Veterinarians has the better 10-year outlook at 9.6% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Veterinarians or Registered Nurses?
Veterinarians typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Veterinarians get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Veterinarians at $163,920/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Veterinarians vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Veterinarians earn $163,920 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.