Needham vs Springfield: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Needham, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Needham, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,939▲ | $135,909 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.27▲ | $65.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,164 | $105,761▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,072 | $111,503▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $175,737▲ | $174,121 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,905 | $273,295▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Needham and Springfield are closely matched on overall veterinarian compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Needham and Springfield is $4,030 (2.97%). Needham's median is +1.90% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Needham spans $135,741,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 9.70% more than Needham ($128,976 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Needham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,939/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 Needham grew -12.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.8% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Needham, MA
$151,379 (2024) → $132,568 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$113,130 (2019) → $128,750 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Needham, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Needham or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Needham and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Needham to Springfield as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Needham 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