Veterinary Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 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 $41,886 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Veterinary Assistant can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly pay for this role is around $41,886. Salaries vary based on experience and skills.


Entry-level positions start at approximately $34,000, while those with more experience can earn up to $52,000 a year. Many Veterinary Assistants fall within a range of $38,909 to $50,364, depending on their specific qualifications and the needs of their employer.


Overall, a career as a Veterinary Assistant in San Diego offers financial stability and an opportunity to grow in a rewarding field.

View Veterinary Assistant Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

Chula Vista, CA, offers the highest average salary for Veterinary Assistants at $42,407, closely followed by La Jolla at $42,143. Del Mar and Solana Beach also present strong earning potential, with average salaries around $40,517 and $40,388, respectively. These cities near San Diego provide excellent opportunities for those looking to advance their careers in this rewarding field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Veterinary Assistant jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Chula Vista, CA with the highest at $42,407 and Poway, CA with the lowest at $38,203.
  1. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $42,407
    Working in Chula Vista offers a chance to help pets in a vibrant community. Local animal clinics like Petco and various veterinary facilities provide opportunities to gain valuable experience.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $42,143
    In La Jolla, you find a mix of beautiful ocean views and the joy of caring for animals. The city's well-known clinics and research institutions offer an engaging environment for veterinary roles.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $40,517
    Del Mar is a picturesque location where you can work closely with animals in a supportive community. Local veterinary offices and animal hospitals often seek dedicated individuals to join their teams.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Del Mar, CA


  4. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $40,388
    Solana Beach combines a coastal lifestyle with a passion for animal care. Here, you can find various veterinary practices that appreciate hardworking individuals and provide excellent training.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  5. Imperial Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $40,143
    In Imperial Beach, you will enjoy the charm of a small town while making a difference in animal well-being. Veterinary clinics in the area look for compassionate staff to assist with pet care.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Imperial Beach, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $39,949
    La Mesa offers a friendly environment for those interested in animal care. Numerous clinics and hospitals provides hands-on experience and opportunities to grow in the veterinary field.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $39,448
    In Rancho Santa Fe, you experience a luxurious lifestyle alongside a commitment to animal care. Upscale veterinary practices in the area often seek skilled assistants to help deliver quality services.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  8. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $38,543
    El Cajon has a burgeoning pet care community that values veterinary support. Local animal hospitals frequently look for passionate dog and cat lovers to join their dynamic teams.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in El Cajon, CA


  9. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $38,493
    Santee is known for its warm community atmosphere, making it a great place to work as a veterinary helper. Local clinics often provide nurturing training for those looking to start their careers.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Santee, CA


  10. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $38,203
    In Poway, you will find a strong sense of community and numerous opportunities in animal healthcare. Many reputable veterinary clinics offer roles that allow for professional development and animal care experience.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Poway, CA

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

Veterinary Emergency Group leads the way with an impressive average salary of $59,667 for Veterinary Assistants in San Diego, CA. Other notable companies include VCA Animal Hospitals and Colony Veterinary Hospital, offering competitive salaries around $44,119 and $43,000, respectively. Job seekers can also find rewarding opportunities at Petco and Ethos Veterinary Health, both providing solid pay in the veterinary field.
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 provides urgent care to pets in need. They focus on offering a supportive and engaging environment for team members. Different locations in San Diego allow many opportunities for Veterinary Assistants to grow and help animals.


  2. VCA Animal Hospitals
    Average Salary: $44,119
    VCA Animal Hospitals operates multiple clinics in San Diego. They focus on creating a supportive environment for Veterinary Assistants, offering opportunities for professional development in a well-respected organization.


  3. Colony Veterinary Hospital
    Average Salary: $43,000
    Colony Veterinary Hospital provides comprehensive care for pets in the San Diego area. Their team values the contributions of Veterinary Assistants, offering a friendly workplace and numerous opportunities for skill enhancement.


  4. Petco
    Average Salary: $42,571
    Petco combines pet care retail with animal services. Their San Diego locations employ Veterinary Assistants to ensure the health and well-being of pets. Team members receive valuable training and support in their roles.


  5. Ethos Veterinary Health
    Average Salary: $42,050
    Ethos Veterinary Health is known for its commitment to specialty care in the San Diego area. They offer a dynamic environment for Veterinary Assistants eager to work alongside dedicated professionals in animal healthcare.


  6. Amerivet
    Average Salary: $41,860
    Amerivet takes pride in providing high-quality veterinary services in San Diego. They value the role of Veterinary Assistants and create a collaborative work atmosphere where team members can thrive.


  7. PetVet Care Centers
    Average Salary: $40,467
    PetVet Care Centers operates several clinics in San Diego. Veterinary Assistants play a key role in providing care, receiving support and growth opportunities in a friendly work environment.


  8. San Diego Humane Society
    Average Salary: $39,713
    San Diego Humane Society focuses on animal welfare. They employ Veterinary Assistants who are passionate about helping animals, providing a nurturing environment that encourages personal and professional growth.


  9. Bodhi Animal Hospital
    Average Salary: $39,667
    Bodhi Animal Hospital is a well-regarded practice in San Diego. They offer Veterinary Assistants a chance to contribute to quality pet care while working in a supportive and community-focused setting.


  10. Destination Pet, LLC
    Average Salary: $39,464
    Destination Pet, LLC operates various locations in San Diego. They focus on creating an engaging experience for pets and provide Veterinary Assistants with strong training and career advancement opportunities.

There are 1,497 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.
Position
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Veterinary Assistant
1,497 Job Openings
Understanding the Veterinary Assistant Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire