Juan Gervasoni
Specialist
July 15, 2025
When it comes to finding the best relief vet jobs, location can shape everything, from your pay to your stress levels. Some states offer better job markets, smoother licensing processes, or even just a lifestyle that fits how you want to work.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we’ve broken down the most important factors to consider and highlighted a few top-performing states that consistently offer excellent opportunities for relief veterinarians.
Before packing your bags, think through these key factors that can affect your success and satisfaction as a relief vet:
Compensation varies greatly by state. Places with higher costs of living (and more urgent demand) tend to offer the best rates. If you’re looking to boost your income, don’t miss our blog on
👉 Relief Vet Salary: How to Earn More and Work Smarter
States with larger urban areas or denser populations tend to have more consistent opportunities. That’s where clinics often struggle to maintain full-time staffing and rely more on relief coverage.
Each state’s veterinary board has its own licensing rules. Some allow easier reciprocity if you’re licensed in another state, but others might require new testing and paperwork. Always double-check the requirements before lining up shifts.
Your job shouldn’t drain your life. When choosing where to work, factor in the cost of living, commute times, outdoor access, and your own mental well-being.
Need support balancing it all? Check out
👉 Veterinary Work-Life Balance Tips: Manage Stress & Time
Here are five states that stand out for relief veterinarians thanks to strong demand, competitive pay, and a solid quality of life.
Pay: Some of the highest rates for relief vet jobs nationwide
Opportunities: High-volume clinics and constant demand, especially in metro areas
Lifestyle: Coastlines, mountains, and big-city energy
Pay: Strong compensation relative to the lower cost of living
Opportunities: Expanding cities like Austin and Dallas drive relief demand
Lifestyle: No state income tax, diverse regions, and plenty of space to spread out
Pay: Solid rates that align well with living costs
Opportunities: A fast-growing population and a huge number of veterinary clinics
Lifestyle: Warm weather, beaches, and vibrant cultural events
Pay: Especially high in the NYC metro area
Opportunities: Dense concentration of vet clinics in both the city and the suburbs
Lifestyle: A mix of fast-paced energy and slower rural living upstate
Pay: Competitive, especially in growing urban areas
Opportunities: Many practices value flexible relief coverage, particularly in the Denver area
Lifestyle: A top destination for outdoor lovers and professionals seeking balance
Starting a relief vet job in a new state can be exciting, but it helps to be prepared. If you’re new to relief work or shifting markets, don’t miss
👉 Relief Veterinarian First Day Tips: Starting Your New Job Right
It covers what to bring, how to make a good impression, and how to adapt fast.
Additionally, when entering a new market or state, building relationships is crucial. Learn how to connect with other professionals and clinics with
👉 Veterinary Networking Tips: Build Connections for Career Growth
There’s no single “best” state for relief vet jobs, but there are smart options based on your goals. Whether you value higher pay, better balance, or a specific lifestyle, places like California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Colorado are strong starting points.
At FlexVet Staffing, we make it easier to find relief vet jobs that work for you, not the other way around.
👉 Explore shifts now on our Locations Page
Want more data on veterinarian salary comparisons by region? Check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for up-to-date national pay data.
