Entry-Level Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary in Derry, NH: $41,422 (2026)
Quick Answer:New veterinary technologists and technicians entering the Derry, NH job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $41,422 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2056, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Derry's local price level (BEA RPP 107.3 — 7% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $38,604 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($51,479) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Derry, New Hampshire, recent graduates entering the veterinary technologist and technician field can expect a starting annual salary around $41,422. This figure reflects the lower 10th percentile, indicating that while initial earnings may seem modest compared to the city median of $51,479, there is significant potential for growth. Within the first few years of employment, individuals may experience upward movement from the lower salary range to the 25th percentile at $43,584, eventually achieving the median salary as they gain experience and build their skills. With an annual growth rate of 5.50%, Derry represents a viable option for new graduates looking to launch their careers in veterinary technology.
About the Derry Market
Salary estimated from New Hampshire average ($42,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Derry
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Derry
Entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians in Derry, NH typically start between $41,422 and $43,584 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $27,269 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $51,479 — 2.99% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average veterinary technology program cost in New Hampshire of $32,000 represents just 77.25% of the starting veterinary technologist and technician pay ($41,422/year) in Derry. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on AVMA CVTEA-accredited veterinary technology program data and state workforce commission reports. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution type (community college vs. private college).
Vet Tech Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Derry
- 1Research the Derry market: entry-level veterinary technologist and technician pay ranges from $41,422 to $43,584, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the veterinary technology field — employers in NH often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Derry, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Derry for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Derry's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Veterinary Technologist and Technician Compensation Range
The veterinary technologist and technician wage spread in Derry is $27,269 ( 65.83%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $41,422, experienced hygienists can earn up to $68,691.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$26,971
2025 BLS Actual
$39,263
2026 Current Est.
$41,422
2019–2027 Growth
+62.0%
Salary Trajectory for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians in Derry (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.50% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $26,971 | Actual |
| 2020 | $28,059 | Actual |
| 2021 | $31,193 | Actual |
| 2022 | $31,885 | Actual |
| 2023 | $33,183 | Actual |
| 2024 | $32,346 | Actual |
| 2025 | $39,263 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $41,422 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $43,701 | Projected |
Entry-level veterinary technologist and technician compensation (10th percentile) in Derry, NH grew 45.6% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $26,971 in 2019 to $39,263 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $43,701. New graduates entering the Derry job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Derry metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.50% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your veterinary technology Career in Derry
In this city, numerous employers actively seek out entry-level veterinary technologists and technicians, with general practice clinics being the primary source of opportunities for new grads. Corporate chains such as VCA and BluePearl are also popular, as they often provide structured mentorship programs and incentives like sign-on bonuses. While specialty hospitals typically require 1-2 years of general experience, building your credentials is critical in this field. Pursuing an Associate's or bachelor's degree from an AVMA CVTEA-accredited program, passing the VTNE national exam, and obtaining state credentials can all enhance your starting pay in Derry. With the veterinary technician workforce shortage affecting the national landscape, significant salary increases of 25-40% across various markets from 2020 to 2024 reflect the pressing demand for skilled professionals. Over the initial years, those eager to advance their careers may look toward VTS specialty credentialing, positioning themselves for top-tier pay that can range from $30 to $45 per hour.
More salary data for Derry, NH:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for veterinary technologists and technicians in Derry in 2026?
How fast do veterinary technologist and technician salaries grow in Derry?
Is veterinary technology school worth it in Derry?
What do new veterinary technologists and technicians make right out of school in Derry?
How do I become a veterinary technologist and technician in New Hampshire?
Related Pages
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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
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new veterinary technology graduates. A 5.50% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Derry. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Derry is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.50%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for veterinary technologist and technicians (SOC 29-2056).
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