Animal Trainer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Animal Trainer in United States is approximately 28,396 USD (28,221 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Animal Trainer do?

An animal trainer is a professional who trains and teaches animals to perform specific tasks or behaviors. They work with a wide range of animals, including domestic pets, marine mammals, birds, and even exotic animals. The occupation requires a deep understanding of animal behavior, psychology, and learning techniques. Animal trainers use positive reinforcement methods such as rewards and treats to encourage animals to learn new skills or modify their behavior. They develop training programs tailored to individual animals, taking into account their species, temperament, and natural instincts. Animal trainers may also work closely with veterinarians to ensure the well-being and overall health of the animals they train.

Skills: Animal trainer, Animal behavior, Positive reinforcement, Training programs, Animal psychology, Veterinary collaboration
Job industry: Entertainment

How much does Animal Trainer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Animal Trainer a well paid job?

No / we do not have enough data to assess this.

What is considered a high salary for Animal Trainer?

High salary for Animal Trainer would be somewhere between 31,236 USD and 41,174 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Animal Trainer in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 28,396 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 2,366 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 546 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 14 USD per hour
By working as Animal Trainer a person can save up to 72 USD per month or 861 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Animal Trainer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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