Sacramento vs San Jose: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Sacramento, CA and San Jose, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sacramento, CA | San Jose, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,323 | $70,980▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.92 | $34.13▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,085 | $55,620▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $59,481 | $64,218▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $66,201 | $78,830▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $80,106 | $82,744▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,010▲ | 470 |
Verdict
San Jose, CA offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sacramento.
The salary gap between Sacramento and San Jose is $6,657 (10.35%). San Jose's median is +42.00% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sacramento spans $28,021,San Jose spans $27,124. Sacramento 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, San Jose ($64,280 effective) pays 6.60% more than Sacramento ($60,301 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sacramento if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,010 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Jose if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,980/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,744)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,280)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Sacramento grew 81.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 33.4% growth in San Jose over the same period.
Sacramento, CA
$33,520 (2019) → $60,970 (2025)
San Jose, CA
$50,450 (2019) → $67,280 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sacramento, CA
San Jose, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Sacramento or San Jose?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sacramento and San Jose?
Should I relocate from Sacramento to San Jose as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Sacramento vs San Jose?
Related Comparisons
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