Chicago, IL Vet Cost Affordability Score: F (1.46% of Income)

Chicago, IL is among the least affordable places for annual vet care. Costs here take a significantly larger bite out of household income than almost anywhere else.

35% less affordable than the national average.

City Care

$920/yr

Median Income

$62,812/yr

% of Income

1.5%

nat. avg 1.1%

How the grade is calculated

We divide annual annual vet care by median household income to get the cost burden ratio. Then we compare Chicago, IL's ratio against the national average. Grades reflect how much more or less families pay here relative to what families pay nationally.

A+

25%+ cheaper

10–25% cheaper

0–10% cheaper

0–10% pricier

10–25% pricier

25%+ pricier

Sources: AVMA Pet Expenditure Survey 2025; U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023 (median household income).

Chicago, IL vs. national average

Chicago, IL 1.5% of income

National average 1.1% of income

Chicago, IL families spend $110/year more on annual vet care than the national average ($810/yr nationally vs. $920/yr here).

Chicago, IL annual vet care affordability: common questions

How affordable is vet care in Chicago, IL?

Chicago, IL earns a F for vet cost affordability. Average annual vet spending is $920 — 1.46% of the city's median household income of $62,812. That's 35% above the national average of 1.09%.

What does a vet visit cost in Chicago, IL?

A routine wellness exam in Chicago, IL typically runs $80–$130. Emergency visits are significantly higher — plan for $400–$1,500+ depending on the condition. Annual spending for a dog including vaccines, one wellness exam, and heartworm prevention averages $920 in Chicago, IL.

Is vet care expensive in Chicago, IL?

Chicago, IL's vet costs are 35% above the national average. The main cost drivers in expensive cities are vet tech wages and commercial real estate — both are higher in urban metros. The F grade reflects how much of the local median income goes toward average vet spending, not just the raw cost.

How does the vet affordability grade work?

We divide annual average vet spending by the city's median household income, then compare that ratio to the national average (1.09% of income). A+ means families here spend 25%+ less relative to income. F means they spend 25%+ more. The grade is about burden, not just price.

What does this mean for your family?

The grade is based on median income. Your actual cost burden depends on your specific income and situation. Use the calculator to see your numbers.

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