Atlantic City vs Hackensack: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Atlantic City, NJ and Hackensack, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlantic City, NJ | Hackensack, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $173,773▲ | $151,810 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.54▲ | $72.98 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $104,378▲ | $93,060 |
| 25th Percentile | $131,412▲ | $122,109 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,910▲ | $186,569 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $280,494▲ | $235,306 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Atlantic City, NJ offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hackensack.
The salary gap between Atlantic City and Hackensack is $21,963 (14.47%). Atlantic City's median is +26.53% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlantic City spans $176,116,Hackensack spans $142,246. Atlantic City has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Atlantic City ($175,782 effective) pays 33.39% more than Hackensack ($131,780 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlantic City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($173,773/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($280,494)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $175,782)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Hackensack if…
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Atlantic City grew 38.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -2.9% growth in Hackensack over the same period.
Atlantic City, NJ
$119,040 (2019) → $164,620 (2025)
Hackensack, NJ
$148,126 (2024) → $143,814 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlantic City, NJ
Hackensack, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Atlantic City or Hackensack?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlantic City and Hackensack?
Should I relocate from Atlantic City to Hackensack as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Atlantic City vs Hackensack?
Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov