The 2026 SPVS Salary Survey results are now available, providing a valuable snapshot of veterinary pay, benefits and working patterns across the profession.
This year’s results show modest growth in overall pay, with some significant regional and career-stage differences. The gender pay gap has narrowed, but remains substantial, while overtime continues to be widespread.
Key findings
- Median full-time salary package: £59,800, up 2.6% from £58,277 in 2025.
- Median hourly rate: £30.12, up 5.5% from £28.56.
- Newly qualified vets: median package increased to £38,950, compared with £37,023 in 2025.
- Experience matters: median packages ranged from £38,950 for vets qualified for less than a year to £76,525 for those qualified for 20 years or more.
- Leadership carries a premium: clinical directors and team leaders reported a median package of £84,331, compared with £67,187 for senior vets and £51,890 for assistants.
- Regional variation is significant: Scotland and Northern Ireland saw the largest increase, with median packages rising by 14.1% to £59,600. The South East remained one of the highest-paying regions at £64,050.
- The gender pay gap has narrowed: the median package was £68,000 for men and £58,262 for women – a 14% difference, compared with 16% in 2025. The hourly rate gap also narrowed from 11% to 8%.
- Overtime remains an issue: 61% of vets reported working overtime, and 57% of those received neither payment nor time off in lieu.
- Benefits continue to contribute to overall remuneration: 74.9% of vets received an employer contribution towards CPD, with an average contribution of £1,539. Pension contributions were reported by 54.8% of vets.
What does this tell us?
The 2026 results point to gradual improvement in veterinary pay, with experience and increased responsibility continuing to translate into higher earnings. There are also encouraging signs that the gender pay gap and levels of overtime are moving in the right direction.
However, the findings highlight continued differences according to location, seniority and gender, while unpaid overtime remains a significant concern.
The survey provides useful benchmarking information for both veterinary professionals and employers, helping practices understand current salary levels and wider remuneration trends.
Thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s survey. Your contributions help SPVS provide meaningful, profession-wide benchmarking information for our members.
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