Average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary in State College, PA
The average salary for a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in State College, PA is $34,900. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market. Notably, State College, PA is a key hub for this profession, with a job concentration 1.61x higher than average.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $34,900 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 20.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $43,630.
- Outlook: The current demand for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 80 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader State College, PA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in State College, PA earns-9.7%below the national average.
$16.8
$671
$2,908
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 3 years, Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salaries in State College, PA have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 20.3%. 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 State College, PA
The earning potential for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss in State College, PA 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 $30,450, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $43,630.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $30,450 | $14.6 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $26,175 | $12.6 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $34,420 | $16.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $43,625 | $21 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $43,630 | $21 |
Detailed Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$34,900
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$34,900
Adjusted for COL (100)
In State College, PA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $34,900 to $34,900.
Job Market Context
80
Total Jobs
1.191
Per 1K Jobs
1.61
Location Quotient
State College, PA 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.
80 people work as Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in State College, PA.
1.191 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 State College, PA
Hiring Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers make in State College, PA?
The median annual salary for a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in State College, PA is $34,900. This typically ranges from $30,450 for entry-level positions to $43,630 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in State College, PA is 9.7% lower than the national median of $38,660.
Is State College, PA a good place for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?
Yes, State College, PA is highly recommended due to strong job demand. While salaries are competitive ($34,900), the area is particularly notable for its high job density for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is State College, PA a good place to live for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers?
The Cost of Living Index in State College, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near State College, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Altoona, PA ($33,870) and Northwestern Pennsylvania 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 80 employees in the State College, PA area with a job density of 1.191 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 State College, PA