Veterinary Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
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How much does a Veterinary Assistant make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Veterinary Assistant is $41,750 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, Veterinary Assistants play a crucial role in animal care and support. On average, these professionals earn around $41,750 per year. This figure reflects various experience levels and responsibilities.

The salary range for a Veterinary Assistant typically starts at about $34,000 and can go up to $52,000 annually, depending on experience and skills. Many factors influence these salaries, including the specific veterinary clinic, the region within San Diego, and the level of responsibility associated with the role.

As experience grows, many Veterinary Assistants see their pay increase. A little over 10% of professionals in this field earn around $35,636, while those with more experience can make as much as $54,545 or more. This progression highlights the potential for financial growth in this rewarding career.

Overall, being a Veterinary Assistant in San Diego offers a satisfying opportunity to work with animals while enjoying a competitive salary.

View Veterinary Assistant Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Veterinary Assistant near San Diego, CA?

Veterinary Assistant jobs near San Diego, CA, offer competitive salaries in several cities. Chula Vista leads the pack with an average salary of $42,646, followed closely by La Jolla at $41,875. Other high-paying locations include Del Mar and Imperial Beach, with average salaries of $40,448 and $40,143, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Veterinary Assistant jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Chula Vista, CA with the highest at $42,646 and Poway, CA with the lowest at $38,334.
  1. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $42,646
    Working as an animal care professional in Chula Vista offers a rewarding experience surrounded by a community that values pet health. Local veterinary hospitals, like Chula Vista Animal Hospital, provide opportunities to assist with care and treatment for a variety of pets.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $41,875
    La Jolla is known for its upscale atmosphere and stunning coastline, making it an ideal place for animal lovers. Veterinary clinics in this area, such as La Jolla Veterinary Hospital, provide a supportive environment to help maintain the health and wellbeing of both pets and their owners.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $40,448
    Del Mar combines a beautiful coastal setting with a passion for pet care. Working with local veterinary services like Del Mar Pet Hospital allows you to engage with pet owners who appreciate high-quality animal care.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Del Mar, CA


  4. Imperial Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $40,143
    Imperial Beach offers a tight-knit community that cares deeply for pets. As an animal care worker, you can find fulfilling roles in local animal clinics, helping ensure that every furry friend receives excellent medical attention.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Imperial Beach, CA


  5. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $39,787
    La Mesa brings a suburban charm that appeals to pet owners, creating a friendly environment for animal care roles. Veterinary clinics like La Mesa Veterinary Hospital often seek compassionate individuals to assist with a wide range of pet health needs.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in La Mesa, CA


  6. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $39,637
    Solana Beach is a vibrant area known for its scenic views and active lifestyle. Engaging with pets and their owners in places like Solana Beach Veterinary Hospital allows you to play a critical role in enhancing their quality of life.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  7. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $39,533
    Rancho Santa Fe is an affluent community proud of its pet-friendly culture. Veterinary facilities in the area often look for dedicated care assistants to help provide top-tier health services to beloved pets.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  8. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $38,847
    El Cajon boasts a diverse population and a love for animals that creates a fulfilling environment for animal care professionals. Local veterinary practices provide an essential service to the community, valuing your contributions to pet health.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in El Cajon, CA


  9. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $38,673
    Santee's family-oriented atmosphere naturally includes pets, making it an excellent location for animal care jobs. Working with local veterinary services offers you the chance to build strong relationships with both pets and their owners.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Santee, CA


  10. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $38,334
    Poway's welcoming community provides a perfect backdrop for animal care roles. Local veterinary clinics, including Poway Animal Hospital, offer opportunities to work closely with pets and help ensure their health and happiness.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Poway, CA

What are the best paying companies for Veterinary Assistant in San Diego, CA?

Veterinary Assistant positions at Veterinary Emergency Group offer the highest average salary in San Diego, CA, at $59,667. Other top-paying companies include Vetco and VCA Animal Hospitals, with average salaries of $47,567 and $44,452, respectively. Job seekers may find rewarding opportunities in veterinary care at these well-regarded organizations.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Veterinary Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Veterinary Emergency Group with the highest at $59,667 and Destination Pet, LLC with the lowest at $39,464.
  1. Veterinary Emergency Group
    Average Salary: $59,667
    Veterinary Emergency Group offers competitive salaries for Veterinary Assistants. The company focuses on emergency care, providing a fast-paced environment. Locations in San Diego allow you to work in a professional and supportive setting.


  2. Vetco
    Average Salary: $47,567
    Vetco is known for its commitment to pet health and wellness. Veterinary Assistants here enjoy a collaborative environment while working at various locations throughout San Diego, catering to pets' needs.


  3. VCA Animal Hospitals
    Average Salary: $44,452
    VCA Animal Hospitals offers a range of services and encourages growth for Veterinary Assistants. With multiple locations in San Diego, you will gain valuable experience in a well-established company.


  4. Colony Veterinary Hospital
    Average Salary: $43,000
    Colony Veterinary Hospital provides excellent care to pets and a supportive atmosphere for Veterinary Assistants. Their San Diego location is dedicated to quality service and staff development.


  5. Petco
    Average Salary: $42,571
    Petco focuses on pet care and wellness, offering Veterinary Assistants a dynamic work environment. In San Diego, the company allows you to connect with animal lovers while gaining essential skills.


  6. Amerivet
    Average Salary: $41,860
    Amerivet operates various animal hospitals and prioritizes the professional growth of its staff. Veterinary Assistants in San Diego benefit from a team-oriented workplace dedicated to providing excellent veterinary care.


  7. Ethos Veterinary Health
    Average Salary: $41,006
    Ethos Veterinary Health specializes in advanced veterinary care. Veterinary Assistants here have opportunities for learning across San Diego locations, gaining expertise in critical patient care.


  8. Bodhi Animal Hospital
    Average Salary: $39,667
    Bodhi Animal Hospital prides itself on providing comprehensive veterinary services. Veterinary Assistants at this San Diego location contribute to a caring environment focused on animal health.


  9. San Diego Humane Society
    Average Salary: $39,601
    San Diego Humane Society is dedicated to animal welfare and offers a meaningful career path for Veterinary Assistants. Working in their locations across San Diego provides both hands-on experience and community impact.


  10. Destination Pet, LLC
    Average Salary: $39,464
    Destination Pet, LLC operates several facilities that focus on pet wellness. Veterinary Assistants can expect a friendly environment in San Diego, where they will support overall pet care and client education.

There are 1,738 Veterinary Assistant job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Veterinary Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Veterinary Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Veterinary Assistant today.
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Veterinary Assistant
1,738 Job Openings
Understanding the Veterinary Assistant Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire