Hot Springs vs Jonesboro: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Hot Springs, AR and Jonesboro, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hot Springs, AR | Jonesboro, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,513 | $44,034▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $20.44 | $21.17▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $31,892 | $33,275▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $34,415 | $35,897▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $50,659 | $54,067▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $54,214 | $59,208▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 21▲ |
Verdict
Jonesboro, AR offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hot Springs.
The salary gap between Hot Springs and Jonesboro is $1,521 (3.58%). Jonesboro's median is -11.91% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hot Springs spans $22,322,Jonesboro spans $25,933. Jonesboro 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, Jonesboro ($50,672 effective) pays 3.58% more than Hot Springs ($48,922 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hot Springs if…
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Jonesboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,034/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($59,208)
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $50,672)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Hot Springs grew 48.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 48.1% growth in Jonesboro over the same period.
Hot Springs, AR
$27,217 (2024) → $40,297 (2025)
Jonesboro, AR
$28,190 (2024) → $41,738 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hot Springs, AR
Jonesboro, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Hot Springs or Jonesboro?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hot Springs and Jonesboro?
Should I relocate from Hot Springs to Jonesboro as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Hot Springs vs Jonesboro?
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