Veterinarian Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Veterinarian positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $89,000 (entry-level) to $200,000 (senior). Median: $128,000.
Median (Mid)
$128,000
$61.54/hr
vs National
+6%
US: $121,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$200,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $89,000 | $100,000 | $113,000 | $48.08/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $110,000 | $128,000 | $147,000 | $61.54/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $147,000 | $170,000 | $200,000 | $81.73/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level veterinarian earning $128,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $111,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 115).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Veterinarian Salaries in Chicago
The median veterinarian salary in Chicago, IL is $128,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 6% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 115 (national average = 100), Chicago offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level veterinarians in Chicago can expect to earn between $89,000 and $113,000 (about $48.08/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $200,000 ($200K annually, or about $96.15/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions: Veterinarian Salary in Chicago
What is the average Veterinarian salary in Chicago?+
The average Veterinarian salary in Chicago is $128,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $100,000 and senior-level pay reaches $170,000.
How much does an entry-level veterinarian make in Chicago?+
Entry-level veterinarians in Chicago earn between $89,000 and $113,000, with a median of $100,000 per year (about $48.08/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Veterinarian in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Veterinarian in Chicago earns roughly $48.08/hour at entry-level, $61.54/hour at mid-level, and $81.73/hour at senior-level.
Is the Veterinarian salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Yes — Veterinarian salaries in Chicago are about 6% higher than the US national median of $121,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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