Veterinary nurses (student and registered) are known to be the backbone of animal care across veterinary practices in the UK. The have a range of responsibilities, from monitoring anaesthesia and assisting in surgery, to providing hands-on patient care and client support; the veterinary nurse role is varied, demanding, but vital. One of the most common questions that is asked by those considering the career is: what does a veterinary nurse actually earn in the UK? This article will explore the responsibilities of a RVN (Registered Veterinary Nurse), the average salaries, and the variations of the role within the UK. 

The Role of the RVN 

So, what is the role of a RVN? Registered Veterinary Nurses are a profession which is regulated by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), they mostly work within veterinary practices, and their day-to-day responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

  • Providing inpatient care and nursing plans to hospitalised patients; 
  • Running diagnostic test (blood samples, urinalysis, X-rays, CTs, MRIs, etc.); 
  • Delivering client advice on preventative health and animal care; 
  • Monitoring anaesthetics and supporting surgical procedures; 
  • Managing infection control and hygiene; 
  • Supporting student nurses and student veterinarians as clinical coaches and mentors. 

Each of these points are just a minor addition to the responsibilities that a RVN carries, but each makes the RVN an essential part of any veterinary team. For more information on the roles and responsibilities of an RVN, see here for a role profile. 

Average Salary Figures from 2025 

The average salary of a veterinary nurse varies depending on many factors, however a newly qualified veterinary nurse can expect a starting salary of the region of 23,000 to £26,000. With around five years of experience, earnings typically rise to £27,000–£30,500. Those progressing into senior positions or lecturing roles may see salaries reach up to £40,000. 

For locum veterinary nurses, pay is generally calculated by the day or hour, with average rates around £199 per day or £23.50 per hour. 

These figures are drawn from the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons (SPVS) 2022/23 Salaries Survey and are intended as a general guide only.  

The Variation in Salary 

Location 

Geography plays one of the biggest roles in determining salary. Nurses working in large cities, such as London, can expect to earn more than their counterparts in rural areas. In the capital, the average sits at around £31,500, with emergency and referral centres offering between £33,000–£43,000. Some advanced or specialist roles can pay even higher, occasionally exceeding £70,000 for those with highly technical skills or managerial responsibilities (Glassdoor, 2025). However, these higher salaries must be weighed against the higher cost of living in London and other major cities. By contrast, nurses in smaller towns and rural practices often earn closer to the lower end of the national scale, sometimes £22,000–£25,000.  

Type of Practice 

The nature of the veterinary practice is another major factor. Nurses working in first opinion practices (the everyday clinics that most pet owners visit) usually earn between £25,000 and £30,000. Those employed in referral or emergency hospitals, where cases are more complex and working hours can be unsocial, are more likely to command salaries of £33,000–£43,000 or more (VetNurse, 2025).  

Corporate-owned practices may advertise higher starting salaries and offer structured benefits packages, sometimes beginning at around £28,000 for new RVNs. Independent practices, on the other hand, may not always be able to match these figures, though they can sometimes offer a more personalised working environment and greater flexibility. Outside of clinical practice, those in pharmaceutical or food company work, or lecturing at a larger university, can expect a substantially greater salary than those in teaching at a further education nursing college. 

Additional Factors 

Salary variation is also affected by working patterns and benefits. Nurses who cover night shifts, weekends, or on-call duties often receive enhanced pay, which can significantly boost annual earnings. Locum nurses (who work on temporary contracts) are generally paid more per hour—typically £23–£25/hour – but without the job security or benefits of a permanent position. Employers may also offer additional perks such as paid RCVS registration, continuing professional development (CPD) budgets, staff discounts, or pension contributions. These non-salary elements can make a real difference when comparing jobs. Finally, the amount of overtime worked is becoming an increasingly important factor, with recent surveys showing that 65% of nurses report doing overtime – up from 39% previously (Veterinary Practice, 2025). 

In short, while the headline salary numbers give a starting point, the true earning potential for a veterinary nurse is shaped by a complex mix of location, practice type, career stage, working patterns, and benefits. 

Challenges of the profession 

Despite their vital role, many veterinary nurses feel the profession is underpaid relative to the skill, responsibility, and mental strain involved. Forums and professional groups highlight that salaries can make it difficult to live independently in high-cost areas, and gender pay gaps remain an issue—women earning between 3–23% less than men in equivalent roles (Veterinary Practice, 2025). 

Conclusion 

On average, a veterinary nurse in the UK can expect to earn £25,000–£30,000 per year, though actual salaries vary widely. Students start on much less, while senior, specialist, or emergency nurses may exceed this amount. Locums often earn more per hour but with less job security.  

Ultimately, while veterinary nursing is not among the highest-paid healthcare careers, it remains a profession many pursue out of passion for animal welfare. For those considering the role, it’s essential to research local practices, weigh up salary versus benefits, and consider the career progression opportunities available.