Richmond vs Virginia Beach: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Richmond, VA and Virginia Beach, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,147▲ | $51,030 |
| Hourly Rate | $27.00▲ | $24.54 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,246▲ | $37,442 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,598▲ | $48,709 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,948▲ | $61,981 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $75,696▲ | $66,560 |
| Total Employed | 420 | 470▲ |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Virginia Beach.
The salary gap between Richmond and Virginia Beach is $5,117 (10.03%). Richmond's median is +12.33% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richmond spans $36,450,Virginia Beach spans $29,118. Richmond 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, Richmond ($57,376 effective) pays 10.12% more than Virginia Beach ($52,103 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($56,147/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($75,696)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $57,376)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Richmond grew 27.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 45.0% growth in Virginia Beach over the same period.
Richmond, VA
$41,750 (2019) → $53,220 (2025)
Virginia Beach, VA
$33,350 (2019) → $48,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Richmond or Virginia Beach?
What is the hourly rate difference between Richmond and Virginia Beach?
Should I relocate from Richmond to Virginia Beach as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Richmond vs Virginia Beach?
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