Chelsea vs Springfield: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Chelsea, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chelsea, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,121▲ | $135,909 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.84▲ | $65.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,224 | $105,761▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $110,458 | $111,503▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $175,661▲ | $174,121 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $218,737 | $273,295▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Chelsea and Springfield are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Chelsea and Springfield is $5,212 (3.83%). Chelsea's median is +2.76% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chelsea spans $136,513,Springfield spans $167,534. Springfield has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinarians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($141,482 effective) pays 8.78% more than Chelsea ($130,065 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chelsea if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,121/year)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($273,295)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,482)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Chelsea grew -12.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.8% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Chelsea, MA
$152,658 (2024) → $133,688 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$113,130 (2019) → $128,750 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chelsea, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Chelsea or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chelsea and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Chelsea to Springfield as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Chelsea vs Springfield?
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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