Bristol vs Waterbury: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Bristol, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $53,504▲ | $51,906 |
| Hourly Rate | $25.72▲ | $24.96 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,556 | $42,126▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $45,421 | $50,682▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $66,409▲ | $63,321 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $72,857▲ | $68,470 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Bristol, CT offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterbury.
The salary gap between Bristol and Waterbury is $1,598 (3.08%). Bristol's median is +7.04% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bristol spans $34,301,Waterbury spans $26,344. Bristol 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, Waterbury ($52,021 effective) pays 4.91% more than Bristol ($49,587 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bristol if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($53,504/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($72,857)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Waterbury if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $52,021)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Bristol grew 3.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 7.5% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
Bristol, CT
$49,238 (2024) → $50,715 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$45,770 (2019) → $49,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Bristol or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bristol and Waterbury?
Should I relocate from Bristol to Waterbury as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Bristol vs Waterbury?
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