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Companion Animal Veterinarian Salary in Chicago, IL
How much does a Companion Animal Veterinarian make in Chicago, IL?
$114,402 (USD)/year
Average Bonus
$1,945 (USD)
per Year
Total Compensation
$114,868.83
Entry Level
$81,003
Median
$112,924
Senior Level
$125,968
As of July, 23, 2026, the average companion animal veterinarian gross salary in Chicago, Illinois is $114,402 or an equivalent hourly rate of $55. In addition, companion animal veterinarians earn an average bonus of $1,945. An entry level companion animal veterinarian with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of $81,003. At the higher end of the pay range, a senior level companion animal veterinarian with 8+ years of experience earns an average salary of $125,968. Salary estimates are based on salary survey data collected directly from employers in Chicago, Illinois.
Data powered by ERI
Salary Potential for a Companion Animal Veterinarian
Explore the estimated salary growth for a Companion Animal Veterinarian in Chicago, IL for up to 5 years. The estimated salary of a Companion Animal Veterinarian will be $117,343 in 1 year and $129,880 in 5 years.
View Salary by Year
Estimated Salary
$120,359
Average Growth
5.2 %
The estimated salary for a Companion Animal Veterinarian in 2 years is $120,359, which is 5.2 % average growth. This information is based on ERI's compensation database.
Typical Companion Animal Veterinarian Education
This chart displays the highest level of education for Companion Animal Veterinarians.
- 0% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have less than a High School Diploma
- 0% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have a High School Diploma
- 0% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have an Associate's Degree
- 33% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have a Bachelor's Degree
- 33% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have a Master's Degree
- 33% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have a Doctorate Degree
Popular Skills for a Companion Animal Veterinarian
Evaluates symptoms
100%
These are the most popular skills for Companion Animal Veterinarians. About 100% of Companion Animal Veterinarians have a skill in Evaluates symptoms.
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Where can a Companion Animal Veterinarian earn more?
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Companion Animal Veterinarian Salaries in Other Locations
Salaries for Similar Job Titles in Chicago, IL
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Companion Animal Veterinarian Jobs
View moreCost of Living in Chicago, IL
The cost of living in Chicago, IL is 35% higher than the national average.
35% higher
than the national average
Whether you're planning to move or just want to see the cost of living in different locations, our cost-of-living calculator is the place to start. Compare salaries for other locations by city, U.S. ZIP code, state, or country.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Companion Animal Veterinarian do?
Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
How much does a Companion Animal Veterinarian make in Chicago, IL?
The average salary for a Companion Animal Veterinarian is $114,402 per year or $55.00 per hour in Chicago, IL. Top earners have reported making up to $125,968. However, the typical pay range in Chicago, IL is between $81,003 and $125,968 annually.
What is the salary trajectory for a Companion Animal Veterinarian?
Companion Animal Veterinarian is projected to see a 13.5 % salary change in 5 years.
How can you increase your salary?
Increasing your salary often starts with understanding your value in today’s job market. You can increase your earning potential by building your skills, advancing your education, moving into a new role or industry, switching companies, or negotiating pay.
How can you negotiate a salary offer?
Negotiating a salary offer involves preparation and finding our your market value. Use our salary calculator to find out how much you should be paid based on what someone in your area, with similar experience, earns. Use this personalized report to help negotiate a higher salary offer or find your dream career.
What are some factors that impact Companion Animal Veterinarian salaries?
Several factors can impact your salary, including experience, company size, job market, location, industry, and more. Understanding how these factors affect your role can help you spot pay gaps and provide opportunities for a competitive salary.
About Our Data
This page is an excerpt of the much more complete compensation information available in ERI's Assessor Series.
ERI compiles the most robust and accurate salary, cost-of-living, and executive compensation survey database available. Data are analyzed using AI and traditional statistics, depending on which approach is best for a particular application. ERI collects salary survey data from five different sources, which you can learn about here.
Verified Sources
Data sourced from internal salary surveys, purchased surveys, public sources, HRIS data, and proprietary databases.
Real-Time Data
Our salary database is updated and verified approximately every six weeks.
Quality Assurance
Along with our data scientists, we have included AI in our rigorous process to analyze and provide the highest quality data.
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