Hays vs Manhattan: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Hays, KS and Manhattan, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hays, KS | Manhattan, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,542 | $54,449▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $20.46 | $26.17▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,753 | $42,801▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,933 | $42,801▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $50,866 | $54,449▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $53,974 | $71,002▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 200▲ |
Verdict
Manhattan, KS offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hays.
The salary gap between Hays and Manhattan is $11,907 (27.99%). Manhattan's median is +8.93% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hays spans $18,221,Manhattan spans $28,201. Manhattan 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, Manhattan ($60,390 effective) pays 29.04% more than Hays ($46,801 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hays if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Manhattan if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($54,449/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($71,002)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $60,390)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Hays grew 39.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.0% growth in Manhattan over the same period.
Hays, KS
$28,937 (2024) → $40,324 (2025)
Manhattan, KS
$37,140 (2019) → $51,610 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manhattan, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Hays or Manhattan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hays and Manhattan?
Should I relocate from Hays to Manhattan as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Hays vs Manhattan?
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