Vet assistant salary in North Carolina
Vet assistants in North Carolina earned a median of $37,070 a year in May 2025, about $17.82 an hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That is 3% below the U.S. median of $38,150. Eight in ten earned between $28,830 (10th percentile) and $46,470 (90th percentile).
Vet assistant pay in North Carolina
| Level | A year | An hour |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,830 | $13.86 |
| Median | $37,070 | $17.82 |
| 90th percentile | $46,470 | $22.34 |
North Carolina ranks 29 of 51 (the 50 states plus D.C.) by median vet assistant pay. BLS reports veterinary assistants together with laboratory animal caretakers, so these figures include both.
Jobs in North Carolina
Browse veterinary jobs in North Carolina, with pay shown when the employer states it.
Other veterinary roles in North Carolina
| Role | Median a year | Median an hour | U.S. median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vet tech | $47,620 | $22.89 | $47,380 |
| Vet assistant | $37,070 | $17.82 | $38,150 |
| Veterinarian | $129,240 | $62.13 | $130,100 |
Training
Most vet assistants train on the job. If you want a structured start or a credential, see vet assistant programs and certification; to earn more, compare vet tech pay in North Carolina and how to become a vet tech.
FAQ
How much does a vet assistant make in North Carolina?
The median was $37,070 a year in May 2025 (BLS), 3% below the U.S. median of $38,150.
How much does a vet assistant make an hour in North Carolina?
About $17.82 an hour at the median, from the BLS yearly figure of $37,070 divided by 2,080 hours.
How does North Carolina rank for vet assistant pay?
North Carolina ranks 29 of 51 (the 50 states plus D.C.) by BLS median pay. The highest medians were Rhode Island ($49,770), District of Columbia ($49,080), Massachusetts ($46,670).
Figures are BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) estimates for May 2025, the latest release, for wage and salary workers (the self-employed are not included). The median is the middle wage: half earned more, half earned less. Hourly figures are the yearly figure divided by 2,080 hours, the way BLS converts between the two. Retrieved from the BLS Public Data API on November 5, 2026.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025, veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: OEWS state estimates (Public Data API)
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