In this Article
By: All Allied Health Staff
Of all the states, Michigan has a unique geographic layout that presents equally unique opportunities and challenges to aspiring vet techs. There are differences in veterinary technician careers between Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) and Lower Peninsula (LP) due to several factors:
Population and demand
- Upper peninsula: The UP is more rural and less populated, which can result in fewer veterinary clinics and hospitals. However, this can also mean that vet techs may find opportunities in mixed-animal practices, serving both companion and large animals, which is more common in rural areas.
- Lower peninsula: The LP is more densely populated, with major cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor. This higher population density increases the demand for veterinary services, leading to more job opportunities for vet techs in various settings, such as private clinics, animal hospitals and specialty veterinary centers.
Types of practice
- Upper peninsula: In the UP, vet techs may work in general practices that cater to a wide range of animals, including farm animals and wildlife. The work can be more varied, and vet techs might need to handle a broader scope of duties compared to those in the LP.
- Lower peninsula: Vet techs in the LP are more likely to work in specialized veterinary practices, emergency clinics and large veterinary hospitals due to the higher concentration of such facilities in urban areas. There are also more opportunities for specialization and advancement in the LP.
Salary and cost of living
- Upper peninsula: While the cost of living is lower in the UP, salaries for vet techs may also be lower compared to the LP. However, the lower cost of living can balance this out, making it affordable to live and work in the UP
- Lower peninsula: Generally, salaries for vet techs may be higher in the LP due to the increased cost of living and the greater demand for veterinary services. Urban areas tend to offer competitive wages to attract qualified professionals.
Quick view of vet techs in Michigan
There are 3,100 people employed as veterinary technicians and technologists in Michigan, said the BLS. The median wage per hour is $23 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.
Veterinary technicians in Michigan perform a variety of tasks that are essential to veterinary care. Their duties may vary somewhat between the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula due to differences in population density, types of veterinary practices and regional needs, but their primary focus will still be on animal care and well-being. Here are five major employers of vet techs in the state
- Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center, East Lansing, MI:
- This teaching hospital is part of Michigan State University and provides comprehensive veterinary care, including specialty and emergency services. Vet techs here work with a wide range of animals and are involved in advanced medical treatments and research.
- Northern Michigan Veterinary Hospital, Traverse City, MI:
- Located in the Lower Peninsula, this hospital offers comprehensive veterinary services for small animals, including preventive care, surgery and dental care. It’s a significant employer in a region with fewer large urban centers.
- BluePearl Pet Hospital, Ann Arbor and multiple locations, MI:
- BluePearl operates several specialty and emergency veterinary hospitals across the Lower Peninsula, including in cities like Ann Arbor and Southfield. Vet techs here work in high-paced environments, dealing with critical care and specialized treatments.
- VCA Animal Hospitals, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and multiple locations, MI:
- VCA operates numerous veterinary clinics across the Lower Peninsula. These clinics offer routine and preventive care, surgery and emergency services, providing a range of opportunities for vet techs.
- Bayshore Veterinary Hospital, Harvey, MI:
- Bayshore Veterinary Hospital provides services for both small and large animals, including preventive care, surgery and emergency services. Vet techs here work with a diverse range of animals.
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 its location in the state, how much experience you have, what kind of animals you work with and your employer type, what specialty certifications you have earned and your level of education.
Median veterinary technician salary in Michigan
The median annual salary for veterinary technicians and technologists in Michigan is $47,150, higher than the national average. East Lansing, which is home to the Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center, pays the highest median salary in the state, at nearly $50,000 per year.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
10%$37,370
25%$39,460
50%$47,150Median
75%$51,300
90%$59,280
Median Hourly Wage$23
Job growth9.1%
Total Employment2,880
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | $51,580 | $37,940 | $61,460 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $48,280 | $38,400 | $59,280 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $48,100 | $38,330 | $59,650 |
| Monroe, MI | $47,870 | $34,580 | $59,620 |
| Midland, MI | $47,470 | $39,570 | $59,070 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | $46,980 | $37,670 | $56,730 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI | $46,860 | $37,250 | $57,860 |
| Flint, MI | $46,660 | $36,870 | $56,310 |
| Saginaw, MI | $46,450 | $36,360 | $56,450 |
| Battle Creek, MI | $46,430 | $31,030 | $61,590 |
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 Michigan vet techs
The salary range for vet techs in Michigan typically spans from $37,370 to $59,280 per year.
The salary range can vary depending on factors such as experience, location and the type of facility they work in. As of recent BLS data:
- Entry-level vet techs can expect to earn between $25,000 and $30,000 per year.
- Mid-career vet techs with several years of experience typically earn between $30,000 and $40,000 per year.
- Experienced vet techs in senior or specialized roles can earn upwards of $40,000 to $50,000 or more per year.
A word 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 Michigan
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. Here’s what the BLS reported as highest paying cities in the U.S.
Michigan, while generally not the highest-paying state for vet techs, has cities where the pay is competitive within the state and compared to national medians.
- Detroit: As one of the largest cities in Michigan, Detroit may offer higher salaries for vet techs compared to more rural areas in the state. Salaries can range from $30,000 to $45,000 annually.
- Grand Rapids: Another major city, Grand Rapids, typically offers competitive salaries, with ranges similar to Detroit, from $30,000 to $45,000 per year.
- Ann Arbor: Known for its university and research facilities, Ann Arbor can sometimes offer slightly higher salaries, ranging from $35,000 to $50,000 annually.
- Lansing: The state capital also offers competitive salaries for vet techs, typically between $30,000 and $45,000 annually.
In comparison to national medians, Michigan cities generally offer moderate pay for vet techs. States such as California, New York and Virginia tend to have higher average salaries for vet techs due to higher costs of living and demand.
Salary growth and job outlook
The BLS predicted a strong market for vet techs nationally, with a much faster than average job growth rate of 9.1%.
The job outlook for veterinary technicians in Michigan specifically is positive. According to O*NET, veterinary technologists and technicians are classified as a “Bright Outlook” occupation. This classification means that the field is expected to grow rapidly over the next several years. Specifically, it is projected to grow faster than average, with an employment increase of 14% or more through 2030.
O*NET also indicates that the demand for veterinary technologists and technicians is due to both new job creation and the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. This trend suggests strong job prospects and may offer numerous opportunities for those entering the field in Michigan.
Factors affecting salaries in Michigan
Several factors can affect the salary of veterinary technicians in Michigan. These may include:
- Experience:
- More experienced veterinary technicians typically earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions offer lower pay, while those with several years of experience or specialized skills can command higher wages.
- Location:
- Salaries can vary significantly depending on the city or region within Michigan. Urban areas such as Detroit, Grand Rapids, East Lansing and Ann Arbor generally offer higher salaries compared to rural areas due to higher living costs and demand for veterinary services.
- Employer:
- The type of facility where a vet tech works can influence their salary. Veterinary technicians working in specialty or emergency clinics, research facilities or academic institutions often earn more than those working in general practice clinics.
- Education:
- Higher levels of education and additional certifications can lead to increased salaries. For example, those with a bachelor’s degree or specialized certifications, such as in anesthesia or dentistry, may earn more.
- State of the industry:
- The overall demand for veterinary services in the area also impacts salaries. Higher demand for vet techs in a particular region can drive up wages due to competition for qualified professionals.
- Union presence:
- In some areas, veterinary technicians who are part of a union may receive higher wages and better benefits compared to non-unionized workers.
- Cost of living:
- Areas with a higher cost of living tend to offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses. This is often seen in more affluent or urbanized areas.
What to do if you think you are being paid unfairly as a vet tech in Michigan
Document the Discrepancy
- Gather evidence of the pay discrepancy. This could include pay stubs, job descriptions and any other relevant documents that demonstrate the difference in pay between you and the other employee.
Understand the company pay policy
- Review your company’s pay policies and structures. This information is often found in the employee handbook or through the HR department. Understanding how pay rates are determined can help you make your case.
Prepare your case
- Write down the specifics of the discrepancy, including amounts, dates and any relevant circumstances. Be ready to explain clearly why you believe there is an inconsistency. Maintain detailed records of all communications and steps taken to resolve the discrepancy. This can be useful if further action is needed.
Request a meeting with HR or your manager
- Schedule a meeting with your HR representative or direct supervisor. Approach the meeting professionally and constructively, aiming for a resolution rather than confrontation. During the meeting, present your documentation and explain your concerns about the pay discrepancy. Be clear and factual, focusing on the evidence rather than emotions.
Ask for clarification
- Request an explanation for the discrepancy. There may be valid reasons such as differences in tenure, performance or other factors that you may not be aware of.
Seek resolution
- If the discrepancy is confirmed and unjustified, ask for a correction to your pay. Discuss how and when the adjustment will be made. Ensure that any agreed-upon changes are implemented. Follow up with HR or your manager if necessary to confirm the adjustment has been made.
Consider further action if needed
- If the issue is not resolved satisfactorily, you may consider seeking advice from a labor attorney or contacting the relevant labor authorities for guidance on further steps. If you want to file a complaint online and open an investigation, you may do so at the Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity website.
Education and training for vet techs in MI
To become a veterinary technician in Michigan, you need to complete several educational and certification steps in order to apply for licensure. Here’s a detailed outline of the requirements:
- Graduate from high school: The first step is to earn a high school diploma or GED. Courses in biology, chemistry and math can be beneficial.
- Complete an accredited program: Enroll in and complete an accredited veterinary technology program. The program should be accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). These programs typically offer an associate degree and take about two years to complete. Accredited programs in Michigan can be found at various community colleges and technical schools, such as Baker College, Macomb Community College in Warren and Michigan State University in East Lansing.
- Gain clinical experience: Most veterinary technology programs include clinical rotations or externships. These provide hands-on experience working with animals under the supervision of licensed veterinarians and vet techs.
- Pass the veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE): After graduating from an accredited program, you must pass the VTNE, which is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).The VTNE covers nine primary domains, including pharmacy and pharmacology, surgical nursing, dentistry and animal care and nursing.
- Apply for licensure: In Michigan, veterinary technicians must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Requirements for licensure typically include graduation from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program, passing the VTNE and submission of an application and fees to LARA.
- Complete required continuing education to keep your license active: Once licensed, vet techs must complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their licensure. The specific CE requirements can vary, but in Michigan you must complete 15 hours of continuing education every three years.
Cost of living in Michigan
According to data from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Michigan’s cost of living index is typically below the national average, which is set at 100. For example, Michigan’s cost of living index often ranges around 88 to 92, indicating it is about 8-12% cheaper than the national average.
RentCafe says the cost of living in Michigan is 4% lower than the national average, with housing at 10% lower than the national average. While food and healthcare costs are also higher, utilities run around 1% lower than the national average. Here are costs of living for some of the major cities in Michigan, especially cities that offer vet tech education or careers.
| Michigan city | Cost of living (versus the national average) |
|---|---|
| Ann Arbor | 4% higher |
| Detroit | 2% higher |
| Grand Rapids | 3% lower |
| Lansing | 9% lower |
| Ishpeming | 8% higher |
Michigan professional associations
Both of the following organizations provide valuable support, resources and advocacy for veterinary technicians in Michigan, helping to advance their careers and the profession as a whole.
Michigan Association of Veterinary Technicians (MAVT): MIAVT is a state-wide organization dedicated to promoting the field of veterinary technology. They offer continuing education opportunities, networking events and resources for professional development. The MAVT also advocates for the interests of veterinary technicians within Michigan.
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA): While NAVTA is a national organization, it offers resources and support that are valuable to vet techs in Michigan, such as the Tuition for Techs program. NAVTA provides professional development opportunities, certification programs and a platform for veterinary technicians to connect.
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This vet tech salary guide for Michigan 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.