In our veterinary studies fact sheet, we saw that the path to becoming a veterinarian is long and demanding. In return for this initial investment, average salaries are high, enabling full development in a dynamic, high-energy environment. In this article, we'll look at all aspects of veterinary salaries, from the factors that influence them to current averages.
Factors influencing veterinary salaries in France
In France , veterinary salaries are influenced by a number of determining factors, such as practice mode, geographical location and level of specialization. These factors contribute to significant variations in the salaries received by practitioners.
Type of practice: salaried vs. self-employed
Practice mode is one of the main criteria determining a veterinarian's income. Here are the main types:
- Salaried vets: these vets work within structures such as clinics, veterinary practices or companies (pharmaceutical industry, public services, etc.). Their remuneration is fixed and stable, often defined by standard contracts. This option offers a certain degree of financial security and social benefits (paid vacations, health insurance, pension), but limits the prospects of income growth.
- Private practitioners: private practitioners, particularly those who own or manage their own clinics, can generate higher incomes thanks to their ability to set their own fees. However, they are also faced with significant expenses, notably for medical equipment, premises and employee salaries. Liberal veterinarians in France enjoy greater flexibility in managing their business, but this also requires entrepreneurial skills and sound financial management.
Location: rural vs. urban
Location is another key factor influencing veterinary remuneration in France.
- Rural area: rural vets work mainly with livestock and farms. Although their role is essential for livestock farmers and health safety, fees charged in rural areas are often more modest, due to the economic constraints faced by farmers. Nevertheless, these vets generally enjoy a regular and stable clientele, with a constant demand for their services, particularly in herd management and emergency interventions.
- Urban areas: in urban areas, vets work in pet clinics. Urban pet owners are often willing to invest more in the care of their companions, enabling urban vets to charge higher fees. As a result, urban vets' incomes can be higher than those of their rural counterparts, particularly in large conurbations where demand for specialist care is high.
Find out more about this in our veterinary profession fact sheet.
Specialization and expertise
Specialization is a major lever for enhancing a veterinarian'sreputation, as well as his or her salary. It also gives access to better veterinary job offers. Here are a few specialties:
- Clinical specialties: in France, many vets choose to specialize in fields such as surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology or cardiology, which offer interesting opportunities to provide high value-added services. These specializations enable us to meet specific needs and attract a clientele willing to pay for advanced care.
- Medicine for new pets and exotic animals: this specialization is increasingly in demand, particularly in large cities. The care of NACs (reptiles, birds, rodents, etc.) requires specific skills and special equipment, enhancing the value of the services offered.
- Certifications and further training: veterinarians who obtain recognized certifications, such as a DESV (Diplôme d'Études Spécialisées Vétérinaires) or European diplomas, can gain access to positions in specialized clinics or prestigious structures. These diplomas bring increased professional recognition and rewarding career opportunities.
Average salary for a veterinary surgeon
Starting salary
At the start of their career, veterinary surgeons earn an average of between 1,800 and 2,500 euros gross per month, depending on the sector of activity and place of practice selected. It should be noted that young graduates working in rural areas or as salaried employees in a clinic generally earn lower than average.
Salary progression with experience
With experience, income gradually increases. After a few years, an experienced veterinarian can achieve a monthly salary of between 2,500 and 4,500 euros net per month, depending on responsibilities and expertise. Liberal veterinarians or clinic owners can see their income climb even higher, especially if they practice in areas of high demand or if they specialize.
In short, veterinary remuneration is generally high, as a direct consequence of the long and complex studies to which this professional has dedicated himself. In France, the variety of types and locations of practice means that veterinarians can adjust their income to suit their goals and ambitions.
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Canine vet/NAC for takeover M/F - Draguignan 83
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2000 - 4000 per month
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Canine veterinarian/NAC job for takeover M/F - Draguignan 83 What if your next job was actually your own clinic? We are recruiting a veterinarian M/F to take over an independent clinic near Draguignan, in the Var region, as part of a project to set up a business. Terms and conditions Takeover of a clinicTakeover possible from summer 2026 The structure This is an independent veterinary clinic, created in 2017 and located in the heart of a Provencal village, near Draguignan, in the Var department. Modern, functional and fully equipped, it is immediately operational, with a living area on the first floor. In addition, its exclusively canine activity is supported by a loyal, pleasant family clientele, enabling a serene, high-quality and long-lasting practice, in a working atmosphere based on trust and proximity with owners. Remuneration Takeover of the clinic at an attractive price, to be defined during the interview based on the project and its development potential. The benefits Independent, modern, fully-equipped clinic, immediately operationalLiving space on the first floor (office, bedroom and bathroom)Experienced, customer-focused teamSmooth working atmosphere, based on trust and proximityLoyal, family-oriented, pleasant canine clienteleAmple parking in front of the clinicTransition support, management assistance and training opportunities, while remaining fully independent in your decisions and practice Our equipment Full IDEXX laboratoryGaseous anesthesia and cardiorespiratory monitoringDigital radiographyLatest-generation Canon ultrasound scanner The little extra Nestled between the sea and the mountains, this corner of the Var offers an exceptional living environment. The Gorges du Verdon, Europe's largest canyon, and the turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix are less than 45 minutes away, while the beaches of Saint-Tropez are just as easy to reach. Provencal sunshine, charming villages and unspoilt nature: a perfect combination of professional serenity and southern art de vivre. Profile required Veterinarian qualified in France. Autonomy in consultation and surgery at your convenience. Interest in setting up or taking over a practice Contact us on 07 44 71 65 08 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference : 12569 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Veterinarian M/F - Bussy-Saint-Georges 77
Employee
5000 - 7000 per month
Bussy-Saint-Georges
Employment Veterinarian M/F - Bussy-Saint-Georges 77 We are recruiting a veterinarian M/F to join a veterinary clinic located in Bussy-Saint-Georges in Seine-et-Marne, on a salaried or freelance basis to be defined. DNA of the structure You will be joining a veterinary clinic based in Bussy-Saint-Georges, around 30 km east of Paris, offering a good compromise between a residential setting and accessibility. The majority of the clinic's activity is canine and feline, the premises include consultation areas and a surgery room, and the team places great emphasis on quality of care, kindness towards animals and collaboration between practitioners. Description and responsibilities You will join a team of 2 vets and 3 ASVs. Your main tasks will be - Handling general practice consultations, mainly for canine and feline patients - Perform surgical procedures in collaboration with the team - Participate in the medical follow-up and well-being of patients - Working 2 to 4 days a week from March 2026 onwards No on-call duty is required. The clinic has 2 consultation rooms and a surgery room. The proportion of activity is 99% canine/feline and 1% NAC. Compensation For this position, you will receive a salary in line with the collective bargaining agreement, increased according to your medical expertise, or, if you opt to work on a self-employed basis, a salary negotiated on the basis of a retrocession. Benefits - Status and contract: self-employed or salaried - contract to be defined - part-time 2 to 4 days/week - Remuneration: collective bargaining agreement, increased according to expertise, or retrocession negotiated on a self-employed basis - Technical facilities: 2 consultation rooms and 1 surgery room - Accessible premises located in a well-served commune - Team: 2 veterinarians and 3 ASVs - Training and career development: access to a wide range of in-house training courses and opportunities for internal mobility and advancement to operational positions - Benefits: reduced rates for your animals and access to a CSE Profile sought State-qualified veterinary surgeon, registered with the Ordre des Vétérinaires, young graduates and experienced profiles welcome, with at least 2 years' experience. Contact us on: 07 45 23 91 01 or by e-mail at [email protected] Reference : 11251 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Clinic Director - Serres-Castet 64
Employee
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A veterinary clinic in Serres-Castet, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, is actively seeking its new Director (DDC) M/F. Terms and conditions - Possibility of salaried or self-employed collaboration - Full time - On-site presence 3.5 to 4 days a week - 80% as practitioner, 20% as clinic manager The structure You will be joining a 100% canine generalist clinic that is part of a dynamic national network, providing methodological resources and operational support. The team consists of two veterinarians and three specialized auxiliaries, guaranteeing a professional and collaborative working atmosphere. Remuneration - To be defined according to profile and experience Benefits - Attractive, negotiable remuneration package - Premium health insurance 100% covered by the clinic for employees - Luncheon vouchers - Dedicated managerial, financial and HR training courses - Methodological support and tools for monitoring performance indicators - Voting rights at general meetings and involvement in strategic decisions - Regular exchanges with colleagues in France and Europe Our facilities - 2 consultation rooms - 1 surgical unit - 1 treatment and preparation room - 1 waiting room - 1 cattery - Radio - Ultrasound - Full IDEXX laboratory - Gaseous The little extra Serres-Castet offers an ideal living environment between town and nature, with beautiful views of the Pyrenees. Its proximity to Pau means you can take advantage of the city's infrastructure, while also having easy access to outdoor activities, hiking and mountain resorts. Profile required Veterinary surgeon qualified in France or the European Union, registered or eligible for registration with the Ordre. Contact us on: 07 44 71 65 08 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference: 12682 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Benefit from a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
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