Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary in California
Also called: Veterinary Assistants
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in California earn a median of $46,260 a year, +21% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $46,260
- vs. U.S. median
- +21% ($38,150)
- Rank among states
- 4 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 16,080
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $37,800; the top 10% earn over $57,940. Nationally the range is $30,120 to $49,150.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians$60,630 median in California
- Animal Caretakers$38,700 median in California
- Phlebotomists$56,040 median in California
- Dental Assistants$50,110 median in California
- Ophthalmic Medical Technologists$60,390 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Veterinarians$163,920 median in California
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers pay in California
How much do veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers make in California?
The median is $46,260 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $37,800 and the top 10% earn over $57,940. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers?
On pay alone it ranks 4 of 51 (+21% vs. the national median of $38,150). Living costs are not included.