Austin vs Waco: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Austin, TX and Waco, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Waco, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,659▲ | $129,754 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.62▲ | $62.39 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,085 | $102,573▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $128,350▲ | $112,685 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,118 | $174,871▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $223,544▲ | $207,563 |
| Total Employed | 700▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waco.
The salary gap between Austin and Waco is $10,905 (8.40%). Austin's median is +2.42% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $133,459,Waco spans $104,990. Austin 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, Austin ($143,433 effective) pays 2.31% more than Waco ($140,199 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,659/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($223,544)
- ✓Larger job market (700 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,433)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Waco if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Austin grew 29.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 42.6% growth in Waco over the same period.
Austin, TX
$103,070 (2019) → $133,250 (2025)
Waco, TX
$86,200 (2019) → $122,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Austin or Waco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Waco?
Should I relocate from Austin to Waco as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Austin vs Waco?
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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