Veterinarian Salary and Job Market Overview
The median annual wage for veterinarians in the United States was around $103,260 in May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of veterinarians is projected to grow 20 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 4,800 openings for veterinarians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force BLS occupational outlook.
Education, Licensing, and Specializations
Veterinarians must earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited veterinary college, which typically takes four years to complete after undergraduate study. As of 2024, there are 33 accredited veterinary medical schools in the United States AVMA economic statistics.
Licensing Requirements by State
All states require veterinarians to be licensed, and most require passage of the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination. Some states also require a state-specific exam or continuing education to maintain licensure AVMA state licensing.
Common Specialties in Veterinary Medicine
Board-certified specialties include surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, oncology, neurology, and exotic animal practice. Veterinary specialists often complete one-year internships and three-year residency programs after veterinary school.
Veterinary Practice Types and Industry Trends
Most veterinarians work in private clinical practices, treating companion animals such as dogs, cats, and horses. A growing share of veterinarians also work in food animal practice, public health, research, and the pharmaceutical industry AVMA practice data.
Corporate Consolidation in Veterinary Care
In recent years, corporate veterinary hospital chains have expanded rapidly, acquiring independent practices across the United States. This trend has influenced pricing, employment models, and access to specialty care in many regions.
Technology and Telehealth in Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary telehealth platforms have expanded since 2020, enabling remote consultations, follow-ups, and triage for pet owners. Regulatory frameworks for veterinary telehealth continue to evolve at the state level.