Average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary in North Carolina
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $37,510, which is slightly below the national average of $38,660. This localized pay rate is influenced by a variety of regional economic factors, including the overall demand for these specialized roles and the prevailing wage scales within the state's animal care and research sectors.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $37,510 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,810.
- Outlook: North Carolina boasts a robust job market for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 5,190 individuals. The location quotient of 1.43 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting strong and sustained demand within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in North Carolina earns-3.0%below the national average.
$18
$721
$3,126
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in North Carolina have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increasing demand for animal care services, advancements in veterinary medicine, and a rising cost of living across the nation.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary Distribution in North Carolina
Career progression for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in North Carolina typically correlates with increased experience and specialized skills. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while senior roles, often requiring advanced certifications or extensive experience, can command significantly higher salaries, reflecting the growing value and responsibility associated with seasoned professionals.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $29,920 | $14.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $28,133 | $13.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $36,680 | $17.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $46,888 | $22.5 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $45,810 | $22 |
Detailed Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$37,510
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$39,526
Adjusted for COL (94.9)
The average annual salary of $37,510 in North Carolina presents a favorable financial situation when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 94.9. This index, being below the national average of 100, suggests that the nominal salary offers a relatively good purchasing power for residents, potentially allowing for a comfortable lifestyle.
Job Market Context
5,190
Total Jobs
1.06
Per 1K Jobs
1.43
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.43, North Carolina has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.43, North Carolina demonstrates a notable concentration of Veterinary Assistant and Laboratory Animal Caretaker positions relative to the national landscape. This indicates a more competitive or abundant job market for these professionals within the state, suggesting greater opportunities and potentially higher demand than the national average.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary | $36,850↓ 2% | 32 mi |
| Winston-Salem, NC Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary | $38,060↑ 1% | 41 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary | $41,780↑ 11% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near North Carolina
Hiring Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers make in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in North Carolina is $37,510. This typically ranges from $29,920 for entry-level positions to $45,810 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in North Carolina is 3.0% lower than the national median of $38,660.
Is North Carolina a lucrative place for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?
Yes, North Carolina offers a competitive environment for these roles.While the average salary is slightly below the national figure, the strong concentration of jobs (LQ 1.43) and a cost of living below the national average make it an attractive location.
Is North Carolina a good place to live for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers?
With a Cost of Living Index of 94.9 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near North Carolina?
Some top paying nearby cities include Greensboro-High Point, NC ($36,850) and Winston-Salem, NC.
How does North Carolina's job market compare to the national average for this role?
North Carolina has a higher concentration of Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers than the national average, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.43.
What is the average salary for a Veterinary Assistant in North Carolina?
The average annual salary for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in North Carolina is $37,510.
Is the cost of living in North Carolina higher or lower than the national average?
The cost of living in North Carolina is lower than the national average, with an index of 94.9 compared to the national baseline of 100.
How many Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers work in North Carolina?
There are approximately 5,190 Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers employed in North Carolina.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 5,190 employees in the North Carolina area with a job density of 1.06 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 North Carolina