In this Article
By: All Allied Health Staff
New York offers unique opportunities for vet techs due to its large and diverse population of pets. The state has numerous veterinary schools and continuing education opportunities, allowing vet techs to advance their skills and specialize in areas such as emergency care, surgical assistance and radiology. Additionally, organizations like the ASPCA have significant presences in New York, providing various job opportunities in community medicine and mobile veterinary services. Just a couple of reasons why New York holds promise for vet techs are:
- New diagnostic techniques and treatments require skilled vet techs to assist veterinarians, leading to a higher demand for professionals in this field. Technological advancements and an increased focus on preventative care have also contributed to this growth, says Vet and Tech.
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), New York is the third highest-paying state in the U.S. and fourth in the country for the highest employment level of veterinary technologists and technicians.
Quick view of NY vet techs
The BLS says there are 5,220 people employed as veterinary technicians and technologists in New York. The median wage per hour is $28 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 9.1%, considerably higher than the job growth rate for all other career fields combined, said the BLS.
In New York, the median annual salary for vet techs varies depending on the location within the state. For example, vet techs in New York City tend to earn higher salaries compared to those in other parts of the state. On average, vet techs in New York City earn around $58,830 per year, which is higher than the national median for this profession. This reflects the high cost of living in the city and the competitive nature of the job market.
Here are five employers in New York that represent a mix of urban, suburban and rural environments for veterinary technicians:
- The Animal Medical Center, Manhattan/New York City, NY:
- AMC is a large, non-profit veterinary hospital offering comprehensive care and advanced treatments for pets. It’s one of the leading animal hospitals in the country, providing opportunities for vet techs in various specialties such as emergency, surgery and oncology.
- ASPCA, New York City, NY:
- The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers a range of veterinary services, including community medicine and mobile veterinary clinics. This organization focuses on providing care for underserved populations and offers unique opportunities for vet techs to work in diverse settings.
- Long Island Veterinary Specialists (LIVS), Plainview, NY:
- LIVS is a specialty and emergency veterinary hospital located in a suburban setting on Long Island. They offer advanced medical and surgical care and provide a variety of roles for vet techs in specialties such as cardiology, neurology and emergency care.
- Veterinary Medical Center of CNY, East Syracuse, NY:
- This state-of-the-art facility offers emergency and specialty care, providing a broad range of services including internal medicine, oncology and surgery. Vet techs at this center have the opportunity to work with advanced medical technologies and a variety of cases.
- Countryside Veterinary Clinic LLP, Lowville, NY:
- Serving the rural community of Lowville and the surrounding areas, Countryside Veterinary Clinic provides comprehensive care for both small and large animals. This clinic offers a unique opportunity for vet techs interested in working with a diverse range of species and in a rural setting.
Salary quick stats for New York vet techs
While the median national salary for vet technicians and technologists is around $45,980 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live in New York, how much experience you have, what certifications you have earned and your level of education. That said, New York vet techs annual median pay is around $9,000 higher than the national median, and the state ranks third for highest pay in the country, after the District of Columbia and California.
Median veterinary technician salary in New York
The median annual salary for vet techs in New York is $58,830, which means its wage is higher than the national median established by the BLS. It’s important to note, however, that salaries may vary based on location within the state. The salary widget below provides the median national wage along with data for different metro areas in the state. As you can see, the highest paying city in New York is Kingston, followed by New York City.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
10%$46,780
25%$48,830
50%$58,830Median
75%$64,400
90%$78,350
Median Hourly Wage$28
Job growth9.1%
Total Employment5,480
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kingston, NY | $58,660 | $47,520 | $74,220 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | $57,660 | $46,540 | $72,440 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh, NY | $56,580 | $46,190 | $61,460 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ | $55,860 | $39,980 | $79,010 |
| Ithaca, NY | $50,030 | $41,120 | $59,230 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $49,690 | $48,290 | $59,280 |
| Syracuse, NY | $48,930 | $44,260 | $59,730 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY | $48,750 | $45,180 | $59,760 |
| Rochester, NY | $48,750 | $45,670 | $58,930 |
| Utica-Rome, NY | $48,310 | $45,640 | $57,770 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for NY vet techs
The salary range for vet techs in New York typically spans from $46,780 to $78,350 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions and more senior-level technologist and specialist roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
A word about vet technicians and technologists and why salaries may differ:
Veterinary technologists are similar to vet techs, but there’s a difference in terms of education needed to do the job. Veterinary technologists hold a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, which may provide more opportunities to advance in the field. Consequently, technologists may earn more than technicians, who hold an associate degree, and technicians may choose to advance to technologist roles by completing two additional years of school and earning a bachelor’s.
Pay by metro area within New York
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. In New York, the Kingston area pays best, followed by the New York City-Newark-Jersey City metro area. New York metro areas do not rank in the BLS top 10 metro areas for pay, but the BLS does say that the New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area ranks number one in The U.S. for highest employment of veterinary technicians and technologists.
Salary growth and job outlook
The job outlook for veterinary technicians in New York is promising. O*NET says the employment for vet techs in the state is expected to grow by approximately 18% through 2030, which is much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations, while nationally, the employment of veterinary technologists and technicians is projected to increase 9.1% through 2034, driven by the growing need for veterinary care and advancements in veterinary medicine.
That New York’s state job growth rate almost matches the national average job growth projection is testament to the need for vet tech services. One primary reason for New York’s growth rate—especially in urban areas like New York City—is its large and growing population of pet owners who are increasingly treating their pets as family members and investing more in their healthcare. This trend includes regular checkups, vaccinations, dental cleanings and advanced medical treatments, which all require skilled veterinary technicians to support veterinarians in providing high-quality care.
Factors affecting vet tech salaries in NY
The following factors collectively influence the salaries of veterinary technicians in New York, making it a dynamic and competitive job market:
- Urban, rural and regional location:
- Vet techs in urban areas like New York City generally earn higher salaries compared to those in rural areas. This is largely due to the higher cost of living in cities, as well as the higher demand for specialized veterinary services. Areas with higher pet ownership and a greater number of veterinary practices tend to offer higher salaries due to increased competition for qualified vet techs.
- Experience and education:
- Vet techs with more years of experience typically earn higher wages. Those with specialized skills or certifications in areas such as emergency care, anesthesia or dentistry may command higher salaries. Holding an associate degree in veterinary technology and obtaining additional certifications, such as becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), may also lead to higher pay.
- Employer type:
- Vet techs working in specialty practices or emergency clinics may earn more due to the advanced skills required and the demanding nature of the work. Salaries also tend to vary significantly between non-profit organizations like the ASPCA and private veterinary practices. Non-profits may offer additional benefits and job stability, but private practices might provide higher base salaries.
- Economic factors:
- In areas with a higher cost of living, employers may offer higher salaries to attract and retain staff, but overall the economic conditions in different parts of the state can influence salary levels. In economically prosperous areas, salaries tend to be higher.
- Demand for skills and services:
- Increasing pet ownership and a higher focus on pet health contribute to greater demand for vet techs, which can drive up salaries. The trend of treating pets as family members may lead to more frequent veterinary visits and advanced care, requiring skilled vet techs. The integration of new technologies in veterinary medicine may also require vet techs to have advanced skills, leading to higher wages for those who are trained in these areas.
What do I do if my pay is unfair in New York?
If you believe your pay is less than another employee who does the same job (and not due to discrimination under protected classes) in New York, you have several steps and resources to address the issue. You should first familiarize yourself with New York labor laws, including the New York State Equal Pay Act, which prohibits wage discrimination. Here are additional steps to take:
- Document your findings and research salaries: Gather any evidence of pay disparities, such as pay stubs or salary information from colleagues (if they are willing to share). Use online resources like Salary.com, Glassdoor and Indeed to find the average salary for your position in your area. This can provide a benchmark for your discussions.
- Review your employment contract: Check your employment contract or any company documentation that outlines salary structures and raises.
- Request a meeting with HR or your manager: Arrange a meeting with your manager or HR department to discuss your concerns. Be prepared with your documentation and research to support your case.
- File a formal complaint: If internal discussions do not resolve the issue, consider filing a formal complaint. The New York State Department of Labor website has a complaint form you can download and mail to their office to open an investigation.
Resources:
- New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL): NYSDOL provides resources and assistance for employees facing wage issues. You can contact them for guidance on your situation.
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): If you suspect that the pay disparity is due to discrimination based on gender, race, etc., you can file a complaint with the EEOC.
- National Labor Relations Board (NLRB): If you’re unionized, the NLRB can assist if your concerns involve collective bargaining or labor practices.
Education and training in NY
The education needed to become a veterinary technician in New York is generally consistent with the requirements found in other states and aligns with national standards. However, there are specific state-related nuances that one should be aware of.
- Education: Aspiring vet techs typically need to complete an associate degree in veterinary technology from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Programs generally cover animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and clinical practices, including hands-on experience through internships or practicums.
- Certification: Graduates must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).
Specific to New York education requirements:
- New York requires completion of an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program. Several institutions in New York offer such programs, including SUNY Delhi, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine–Medaille College and LaGuardia Community College.
- After passing the VTNE, prospective vet techs must apply for licensure through the New York State Education Department (NYSED). This includes submitting proof of education, passing exam scores and other required documentation.
- New York mandates continuing education (CE) for licensed veterinary technicians to maintain their license. This ensures vet techs stay current with advancements in veterinary medicine and practices. The state requires the completion of 24 hours of continuing education every three-year period.
Cost of living considerations in NY
The cost of living for vet techs in New York is high compared to other states and the national average, especially in urban areas such as New York City where housing and utilities are way above average, accounts for higher salaries in these areas. For example, RentCafe says while the cost of living average for the state is 27% higher than the national average, the cost of living in New York City alone is 76% higher than the national average and housing is 236% higher.
Here are comparative costs of living for upstate and downstate New York cities, some of which have large employers of vet techs in the state:
| New York city | Cost of living (versus the national average) |
|---|---|
| New York City | 76% higher |
| Syracuse | 2% higher |
| Brooklyn | 61% higher |
| Rochester | 0% higher |
| Queens | 40% higher |
| Buffalo | 5% lower |
New York state professional associations for vet techs
These associations provide valuable support, education and advocacy for veterinary technicians in New York State, helping to advance the profession and improve standards of care.
New York State Association of Veterinary Technicians (NYSAVT): NYSAVT is the primary professional association representing veterinary technicians in New York State. The association offers resources for continuing education, professional development and advocacy for the veterinary technician profession. It also provides networking opportunities and supports initiatives that enhance the role and recognition of vet techs.
Long Island Veterinary Medical Association (LIVMA): LIVMA serves vets and veterinary technicians on Long Island, promoting professional development through continuing education, networking and support. The association organizes events, workshops and seminars aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of veterinary technicians in the region.
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This vet tech salary guide for New York aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.