Animal Caretaker Salary: Earning Potential and Job Outlook

Average Hourly Wage

Animal caretakers earn an average hourly wage of $13.75, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries typically start from $10.28 per hour and can go up to $16.00 per hour or more. The average salary for an animal caretaker in the United States is $21.37 per hour.

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors can influence an animal caretaker's salary, including:

• Experience: Animal caretakers with more experience generally earn higher salaries.
• Education: Animal caretakers with a degree or certification in animal science or a related field may earn higher salaries.
• Location: Animal caretakers working in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.
• Type of facility: Animal caretakers working in zoos, animal shelters, or research facilities may earn higher salaries than those working in pet stores or grooming salons.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for animal caretakers is expected to grow 11% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing popularity of pets and the growing awareness of the importance of animal welfare.

Conclusion

Animal caretakers play an essential role in ensuring the well-being of animals. They earn a competitive salary and can expect steady job growth in the coming years. If you love animals and are passionate about their care, a career as an animal caretaker may be a rewarding option for you.