Aiken vs Columbia: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Aiken, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aiken, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $39,858 | $40,501▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.16 | $19.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $30,941 | $31,808▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $32,911 | $37,611▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $48,121 | $49,754▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $51,855 | $54,913▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 430▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Aiken.
The salary gap between Aiken and Columbia is $643 (1.61%). Columbia's median is -18.98% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aiken spans $20,914,Columbia spans $23,105. Columbia has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinary technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Aiken ($43,561 effective) pays 0.74% more than Columbia ($43,242 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aiken if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $43,561)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($40,501/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($54,913)
- ✓Larger job market (430 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Aiken grew 22.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 20.2% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Aiken, SC
$30,849 (2024) → $37,780 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$31,930 (2019) → $38,390 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Aiken or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aiken and Columbia?
Should I relocate from Aiken to Columbia as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Aiken vs Columbia?
Written by Jordan Lee, CVT
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in veterinary technology. They specialize in emergency care. Jordan has worked in both clinic and hospital settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.50% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, CVT, a licensed veterinary technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov