Vet Cost: Phoenix vs Denver (2026)
Phoenix annual vet spending averages $793/year — $142/year less than Denver's $935/year.
Phoenix, AZ
$793
annual avg
-$17 vs national avg
Denver, CO
$935
annual avg
+$125 vs national avg
Phoenix vs Denver — All Procedures
Annual or per-visit costs. Green = lower cost. National average shown for context.
| Procedure / Category | Phoenix | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Vet Spending | $793 ✓ | $935 |
| Wellness Exam | $64 ✓ | $75 |
| Dog Spay/Neuter | $294 ✓ | $347 |
| Dental Cleaning | $489 ✓ | $578 |
| Emergency Exam | $161 ✓ | $190 |
Source: AVMA economic research + metro cost-of-living adjustment. Annual avg = routine preventive care for one adult dog. 2026 estimates.
Annual Cost Impact
Annual vet spending in Phoenix is $793/year vs Denver's $935/year.
Annual savings
$142
5-year savings
$710
10-year savings
$1,420
% difference
18%
Savings = Denver cost minus Phoenix cost. Annual vet spending for one adult dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vet care cheaper in Phoenix or Denver?
Phoenix is cheaper for annual vet spending at $793/year, vs. $935/year in Denver — a $142/year gap. Phoenix wins on 5 of 5 cost categories.
How much can I save on vet bills moving from Denver to Phoenix?
Annual vet spending in Phoenix runs $142/year less than in Denver. Over a typical 10-year lifespan of a dog, that's $1,420 saved on routine and preventive care — not counting emergencies or specialist visits.
How do both cities compare to the national average?
The national average for annual vet spending is $810/year. Phoenix is $17 below the national average, and Denver is $125 above.
Related Comparisons
See full cost breakdown: Vet costs in Phoenix · Vet costs in Denver · All city comparisons