In this Article
By: All Allied Health Staff
Georgia is considered a good state for veterinary technicians due to its employment opportunities, competitive salaries and supportive professional environment. The growing demand for vet techs and the availability of quality educational programs further enhance the state’s appeal for those in this profession. More reasons why Georgia is a state to consider if you’re looking to become a vet tech include:
- Georgia has a diverse range of veterinary practices, animal hospitals and specialty clinics. Major cities like Atlanta, Savannah and Augusta have numerous veterinary facilities, potentially providing ample job opportunities.
- Compared to some other states, Georgia has a relatively moderate cost of living. This can make the salaries for vet techs stretch further, enhancing their overall quality of life.
- Georgia is home to several accredited veterinary technology programs, such as those at Gwinnett Technical College and Athens Technical College. These programs provide education and training for aspiring vet techs.
- The demand for veterinary technicians in Georgia is growing, driven by increasing pet ownership and the expansion of veterinary services. This positive job outlook is encouraging for those entering the field.
Quick view of vet techs in Georgia
There are 2,840 people employed as veterinary technicians and technologists in Georgia, said the BLS. The median wage per hour is $19 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 9.1%, considerably higher than the job growth rate for all other career fields combined, said the BLS.
In Georgia, veterinary technicians play a key role in animal healthcare by providing comprehensive support to veterinarians in various settings, including animal hospitals, clinics, specialty practices and research facilities. Their duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities such as assisting in surgical procedures, administering medications, conducting laboratory tests and providing compassionate care to animals. Vet techs in Georgia also engage in client education, guiding pet owners on proper animal care and preventive health measures. With the state’s diverse veterinary services and growing demand for skilled professionals, vet techs in Georgia are essential to maintaining high standards of animal health and welfare.
These employers represent a mix of academic institutions, specialty and emergency hospitals, animal welfare organizations and general veterinary practices, offering diverse opportunities for veterinary technicians in Georgia.
- University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, GA:
- This renowned veterinary school offers advanced veterinary care, research opportunities and educational programs. Vet techs here work in various specialties, including surgery, oncology and emergency care.
- BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital, Atlanta, Sandy Springs, multiple locations, GA:
- BluePearl operates several specialty and emergency veterinary hospitals across Georgia, providing advanced medical care for pets. Vet techs at BluePearl work with a wide range of cases and specialties.
- Atlanta Humane Society, Atlanta, GA:
- The Atlanta Humane Society is one of the oldest and largest animal welfare organizations in Georgia. Veterinary technicians here provide medical care for shelter animals, assist with spay/neuter surgeries and support adoption and outreach programs.
- VCA Animal Hospitals, Atlanta, Savannah, Roswell, multiple locations, GA:
- VCA operates numerous animal hospitals throughout Georgia, offering comprehensive veterinary services. Vet techs at VCA handle routine and emergency care, diagnostics and patient education.
- Banfield Pet Hospital, Atlanta, Decatur, Peachtree City, multiple locations, GA:
- Banfield Pet Hospital is a nationwide network of veterinary clinics with several locations in Georgia. Vet techs at Banfield provide preventive care, wellness exams and medical treatments in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Georgia vet tech salary quick stats
While the median national salary for vet technicians and technologists—is just over $45,980 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, what kind of animals you work with, what specialty certifications you have earned and your level of education.
The role of a vet tech involves continuous learning and skill development, which can be intellectually stimulating and professionally satisfying. You can specialize in areas such as dentistry, anesthesia, emergency care and more, which may also increase your salary.
Median veterinary technician salary in Georgia
The median annual salary for veterinary technicians and technologists in Georgia is $38,810, which is below the national median. While Georgia’s average vet tech salary is lower than the national median, it is important to consider the cost of living, which can be less in Georgia compared to many other states. This means the relative purchasing power of a vet tech’s salary in Georgia might be comparable to or even better than in states with higher salaries but also higher living costs.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
10%$31,290
25%$36,720
50%$38,810Median
75%$46,090
90%$57,280
Median Hourly Wage$19
Job growth9.1%
Total Employment3,280
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | $44,760 | $36,630 | $58,410 |
| Gainesville, GA | $39,250 | $31,240 | $60,210 |
| Savannah, GA | $37,790 | $30,560 | $49,740 |
| Warner Robins, GA | $36,900 | $29,070 | $46,960 |
| Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC | $36,150 | $28,890 | $48,530 |
| Athens-Clarke County, GA | $35,610 | $34,000 | $51,790 |
| Macon-Bibb County, GA | $35,360 | $28,850 | $47,990 |
| Columbus, GA-AL | $35,130 | $27,690 | $46,800 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for vet techs in Georgia
The salary range for vet techs in Georgia typically spans from $31,290 to $57,280 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level and technologist roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education and time in the position. Salaries may be higher in urban areas like Atlanta compared to rural areas due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services in cities.
About vet technicians and technologists and why salaries may differ:
Veterinary technologists are similar to vet techs, but there’s a difference in terms of education needed to do the job. Veterinary technologists hold a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, which may provide more opportunities to advance in the field. Consequently, technologists may earn more than technicians. Technicians could choose to advance to technologist roles by completing two additional years of school beyond their associate degree and being granted a bachelor’s.
Pay by metro areas in Georgia
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub such as Atlanta, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reported as highest paying cities in the U.S.:
Not surprisingly, California metro areas dominate the list, along with Washington state cities. Georgia metropolitan areas do not rank in the top 10 for highest pay or for highest employment of vet techs in the U.S. said the BLS.
Salary growth and job outlook
The BLS predicted a strong market for vet techs nationally, with a much faster than average job growth rate. The job growth outlook for veterinary technicians in Georgia also reflects that trend:
- National growth rate: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of veterinary technologists and technicians is projected to grow 9.1% through 2034. The average job growth rate for all other jobs nationally currently rests at 3% through 2034.
- Georgia-specific growth: Georgia is expected to follow this national trend, with a strong demand for veterinary services driven by increasing pet ownership and the need for veterinary care.
Factors affecting vet tech salaries in Georgia
Several factors can influence the salary of veterinary technicians in Georgia, including both broader economic conditions and specific industry-related factors. Here are the key things to consider:
- Your location within Georgia:
- Vet techs in urban areas like Atlanta, Savannah or Augusta tend to earn higher salaries compared to those in rural areas. This is due to a higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services in cities.
- Experience and education:
- As with many professions, more experienced vet techs may be able to command higher salaries. Vet techs who specialize in areas such as anesthesia, dentistry or emergency care may earn higher wages.
- Employer type:
- Private veterinary practices typically offer competitive salaries, especially in high-demand areas, while animal hospitals and clinics may offer higher wages, particularly if they are part of larger veterinary healthcare networks. Research facilities and universities may be able to offer higher salaries due to the specialized nature of the work.
- Georgia’s economy:
- The overall economic health of Georgia can influence salaries. A strong economy often leads to increased spending on pet care, thereby boosting demand for vet techs. Government funding for veterinary programs and public awareness campaigns may also impact job availability and salaries.
- Georgia’s population growth:
- Georgia has seen significant population growth, particularly in urban areas. More people often mean more pet ownership, increasing the demand for veterinary services.
- Industry trends:
- New technologies and treatments can require more skilled technicians, potentially increasing salaries. Veterinary practices that expand their services to include specialties such as rehabilitation, advanced diagnostics and preventive care may offer higher wages to attract skilled techs.
- Professional certifications and continuing education:
- Obtaining certifications beyond the standard requirements, such as becoming a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS), may lead to higher pay. Continuous professional development and education, besides being required to maintain certification, can make vet techs more valuable to employers.
- Unions and professional association membership:
- Membership in professional organizations or unions can sometimes lead to better wage negotiations and improved working conditions.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly as a vet tech in Georgia?
Addressing pay disparity issues in Georgia, whether it’s within the veterinary field or other professions, involves accessing various resources and organizations dedicated to promoting fair wages and equality. Here are some key resources and organizations:
- Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL): Provides information on labor laws, wage standards and workplace rights and offers a complaint portal to lodge a wage issue.
- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): Offers resources on the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which covers minimum wage, overtime pay and other labor standards.
- National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA): Provides resources and support for veterinary technicians nationwide, including Georgia, advocating for fair wages and professional standards.
- Georgia Legal Services Program (GLSP): Offers free legal assistance to low-income Georgians facing employment-related issues, including pay disparity.
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): Addresses discrimination and pay disparity issues. You can file complaints and seek guidance on wage-related matters.
What to do if you believe you are being underpaid:
- Research: Learn what others in your role are earning. Use the BLS, Indeed, Payscale and other salary aggregators to get an idea of what pay is like in your area.
- Negotiate: If you still find that you are being underpaid, prepare to negotiate your salary. Gather data on industry standards from the BLS, professional organizations, note your contributions to the practice and any additional responsibilities you handle.
- Seek other opportunities: Consider looking for job opportunities at other practices or employers who may offer better compensation and benefits.
- Enhance your skills: Invest in further education and certifications to increase your marketability and justify higher pay.
Education and training in Georgia
The education requirements for veterinary technicians in Georgia are consistent with national standards, requiring graduation from an accredited veterinary technology program and passing the VTNE. Additionally, vet techs in Georgia must obtain state licensure and complete continuing education to maintain their credentials. Here’s a deeper dive into the requirements for Georgia:
- Complete an accredited veterinary technology program: Aspiring vet techs must complete an associate degree in veterinary technology from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
- Certification: After completing an accredited program, graduates must pass the VTNE, which is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). The VTNE is a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge in areas such as pharmacy and pharmacology, surgical nursing, dentistry, laboratory procedures, animal care and radiology.
- Georgia state licensing: After passing the VTNE, vet techs must apply for licensure through the Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine.
- Continuing Education: Licensed vet techs in Georgia must complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their license. The Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine requires a certain number of CE hours to be completed every renewal period. CE can include attending workshops, seminars, online courses and other approved educational activities.
Additional things to consider:
- Specializing: Vet techs can pursue additional certifications in specialized areas such as anesthesia, emergency and critical care, dentistry and internal medicine through organizations like the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
- Professional organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the Georgia Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association (GVTAA) and NAVTA can provide access to resources, continuing education opportunities and professional networking.
Cost of living considerations in Georgia
Vet techs are lucky in Georgia, as the cost of living is around 10% lower than the national average, says RentCafe. Housing is also promising, at 23% lower than the national average for renters and buyers. Here are costs of living for some of the major cities in Georgia, including those cities the BLS lists as paying vet techs the highest salaries, and cities with a high industry profile for veterinary services:
| Georgia city | Cost of living (versus the national average) |
|---|---|
| Atlanta | 1% lower |
| Augusta | 16% lower |
| Savannah | 8% lower |
| Athens | 6% lower |
| Valdosta | 9% lower |
Georgia professional associations
The following associations offer valuable resources and support for veterinary technicians and technologists, helping them to advance their careers and stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
Georgia Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association (GVTAA): GVTAA is a professional organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the field of veterinary technology in Georgia. They offer resources, continuing education opportunities and networking events for vet techs in the state.
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA): Although NAVTA is a national organization, it has significant relevance and resources for veterinary technicians in Georgia. NAVTA provides support, education and advocacy for veterinary technicians across the United States.
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This vet tech salary guide for Georgia strives to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.