Animal Caretakers Salary in Houston, TX

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX

Median annual salary $29,220 -12.7% vs national
Median hourly $14.05
10th percentile $23,390
90th percentile $43,630
Employed locally 5,260
National median $33,470

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Animal Caretakers
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Houston, TX
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    In Houston, Texas, animal caretakers typically earn a median annual salary of $29,220, which translates to a median hourly wage of $14.05. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $33,470. When compared to the local median household income in Houston, which is approximately $80,458, animal caretakers' earnings fall well below the average household income level. This discrepancy highlights a significant income gap between those employed in this field and the broader population of working households within the area.

    For entry-level animal caretakers in Houston, salaries often start around the 10th percentile mark at approximately $23,390 annually, reflecting lower wages as workers gain experience and skills. In contrast, experienced professionals can earn up to or beyond the 75th percentile, which is about $34,490 per year, with some reaching the 90th percentile earning as much as $43,630. The variation in earnings between entry-level and seasoned workers is driven by factors such as years of experience, specialized skills, education levels, and responsibilities within their roles. As caretakers advance in their careers, they often take on more complex tasks or managerial positions, which command higher salaries due to the increased expertise required.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $23,390
    25th
    $28,320
    50th (median)
    $29,220
    75th
    $34,490
    90th
    $43,630

    Houston economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,458 2023 • Census ACS
    Animal Caretakers salary vs area income 36% Median Animal Caretakers salary is 64% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Animal Caretakers make per hour in Houston?

    The median hourly wage for Animal Caretakers in Houston, TX is $14.05, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $23.07 or more per hour.

    Is Houston above or below average for Animal Caretakers salaries?

    The median Animal Caretakers salary in Houston, TX is 12.7% below the national median of $33,470. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Animal Caretakers in Houston?

    Entry-level Animal Caretakers (10th percentile) earn around $23,390 per year in Houston, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $28,320.