Animal caretakers
BLS projects employment of animal caretakers to change by +12.1% from 2025 to 2035, faster than the 3.5% projected for all occupations, with about 62,800 openings a year. The median annual wage in 2025 was $35,360 (all occupations: $50,980).
Updated
| Median annual wage, 2025 | $35,360 |
|---|---|
| Employment, 2025 | 365,300 |
| Projected employment, 2035 | 409,400 |
| Change, 2025–35 | +12.1% (+44,100) |
| Openings per year, 2025–35 average | 62,800 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Work experience in a related occupation | None |
| Typical on-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Self-employed | 24.8% |
Read the official BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook profile ↗
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program, Table 1.2 Occupational projections, 2025–35, and worker characteristics, 2025 ↗. Employment is for 2025, projections to 2035; median annual wage is for 2025; openings are the projected annual average for 2025–35. Figures are national, not local. Data last downloaded Oct 16, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How much do animal caretakers make?
BLS reports a median annual wage of $35,360 for animal caretakers in 2025.
What is the job outlook for animal caretakers?
BLS projects employment to change by +12.1% from 2025 to 2035, with about 62,800 openings per year on average.
What education do animal caretakers need?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as: High school diploma or equivalent. Typical on-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training.