Veterinary Assistant salary in California
A strong career option in California — with programs that take 2 to 12 months to complete.
Median pay · May 2025
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$46,260/ yr
$3,855 / mo · $22.24 / hr
↑ $8,110 above the national median ($38,150)
Pay by experience
Entry
$37,794
Median
$46,260
Experienced
$57,949
Demand
Moderate
Program length
2 to 12 months
Projected growth
+8.7%
Annual openings
22,200
Market trajectory
BLS national wage benchmarks
How California compares to the national wage trend
California median
$46,260
2025 national
$38,150
2024 national
$37,320
↑ +2.2% change in national average wages for this field over the last year.
Job demand & outlook
+8.7% projected growth through 2034
22,200 average annual openings nationwide for Veterinary Assistants.
Source: BLS Employment Projections
Where this career can take you
A clear progression path, with real salary growth at each step
- State Certificate$50,559
- Professional Certification / Diploma$53,771
- Professional Certification / Bootcamp$88,192
- Associate Degree$80,408
Is this career change worth it?
A simple look at what it costs vs what you gain
What it typically costs
- Average training cost$2,999
- Time to complete2 to 12 months
- Credential earnedState Certificate
What you get back
- Starting salary$37,794
- Median salary$46,260
- Experienced salary$57,949
Many career changers recoup their certification cost within the first few months of working in their new role.
How to become a Veterinary Assistant in California
A clear path from where you are to where you want to be
Find a Veterinary Assistant program in California
Browse certified training programs. Most Veterinary Assistant tracks complete in 2 to 12 months and average $2,999 in tuition.
Earn your State Certificate
Complete coursework, finish required clinical or lab hours, and pass the exam required for a State Certificate in California.
Get hired in California
With roughly 22,200 Veterinary Assistant openings each year nationwide, graduates often find employment within 30–90 days in California.
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Frequently asked questions
The median salary for a Veterinary Assistant in California is $46,260 per year, which is $22.24 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $37,794 while experienced Veterinary Assistants can earn up to $57,949 annually.
Next step
Find Veterinary Assistant Classes Near You
Enter your ZIP code to see accredited Veterinary Assistant classes in your area.