Bellingham vs Oak Harbor: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Bellingham, WA and Oak Harbor, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bellingham, WA | Oak Harbor, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,625▲ | $59,176 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.11▲ | $28.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,300▲ | $45,687 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,081▲ | $48,387 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,984 | $69,245▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,197▲ | $72,568 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Bellingham, WA offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Oak Harbor.
The salary gap between Bellingham and Oak Harbor is $3,449 (5.83%). Bellingham's median is +25.29% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bellingham spans $28,897,Oak Harbor spans $26,881. Bellingham has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bellingham ($60,604 effective) pays 9.99% more than Oak Harbor ($55,099 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bellingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,625/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($78,197)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $60,604)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Oak Harbor if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Bellingham grew 34.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.5% growth in Oak Harbor over the same period.
Bellingham, WA
$44,140 (2019) → $59,360 (2025)
Oak Harbor, WA
$50,743 (2024) → $56,091 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bellingham, WA
Oak Harbor, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Bellingham or Oak Harbor?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bellingham and Oak Harbor?
Should I relocate from Bellingham to Oak Harbor as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Bellingham vs Oak Harbor?
Related Comparisons
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