Average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Ames, IA is $35,520. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market. Notably, Ames, IA is a key hub for this profession, with a job concentration 1.65x higher than average.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $35,520 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.3% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,170.
- Outlook: The current demand for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 70 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Ames, IA earns-8.1%below the national average.
$17.1
$683
$2,960
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 3 years, Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salaries in Ames, IA have seen a slight adjustment of -19.3%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss in Ames, IA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $28,340, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $44,170.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $28,340 | $13.6 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $26,640 | $12.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $34,580 | $16.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $44,400 | $21.3 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $44,170 | $21.2 |
Detailed Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$35,520
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$35,520
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $35,520 to $35,520.
Job Market Context
70
Total Jobs
1.22
Per 1K Jobs
1.65
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 1.6x the national concentration of Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
70 people work as Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Ames, IA.
1.22 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions — a typical concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Ames, IA is $35,520. This typically ranges from $28,340 for entry-level positions to $44,170 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 8.1% lower than the national median of $38,660.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?
Yes, Ames, IA is highly recommended due to strong job demand. While salaries are competitive ($35,520), the area is particularly notable for its high job density for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($33,520) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 70 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 1.22 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA