Idaho Falls vs Meridian: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Idaho Falls, ID and Meridian, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Idaho Falls, ID | Meridian, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,723 | $40,875▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.58 | $19.65▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $30,658 | $31,514▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,151▲ | $33,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,019 | $49,225▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $50,091 | $56,086▲ |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Meridian, ID offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Idaho Falls.
The salary gap between Idaho Falls and Meridian is $152 (0.37%). Meridian's median is -18.23% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Idaho Falls spans $19,433,Meridian spans $24,572. Meridian 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, Idaho Falls ($43,133 effective) pays 0.57% more than Meridian ($42,891 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $43,133)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Meridian if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($40,875/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($56,086)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Idaho Falls grew 30.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 12.5% growth in Meridian over the same period.
Idaho Falls, ID
$29,650 (2021) → $38,600 (2025)
Meridian, ID
$34,436 (2024) → $38,744 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Idaho Falls, ID
Meridian, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Idaho Falls or Meridian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Idaho Falls and Meridian?
Should I relocate from Idaho Falls to Meridian as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Idaho Falls vs Meridian?
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