US Physician Salaries: How Much Do Doctors Earn?
Thinking about a medical career or just curious about how much doctors make in the United States? The numbers can be surprising – they vary a lot by specialty, location, and experience. Below you’ll get a clear picture of the average pay, the best‑paying fields, and the factors that can push your paycheck higher.
Average Pay and Top‑Earning Specialties
According to the latest data from the Medscape Physician Compensation Report, the overall average salary for a US physician in 2025 sits around $242,000 per year. That figure blends primary care doctors and specialists, so it masks a big spread.
Primary care physicians – family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics – typically earn between $180,000 and $210,000. They handle most of the day‑to‑day patient care and often work longer hours, but the pay reflects the broader demand for general health services.
Specialists, on the other hand, pull in a lot more. Orthopedic surgeons lead the pack with averages near $511,000, followed by cardiologists at about $460,000. Dermatology, radiology, and gastroenterology also rank high, each averaging between $400,000 and $430,000**.
If you’re interested in a high‑earning niche, consider fields like interventional radiology or plastic surgery – both regularly exceed $500,000 per year. Keep in mind that these specialties require additional fellowship training and often longer work weeks.
Factors That Influence Your Salary
Location matters a lot. Doctors in high‑cost areas like California, New York, or Massachusetts usually see higher salaries to offset living expenses. Conversely, rural or lower‑cost states may offer lower base pay but can provide loan‑repayment programs and signing bonuses that boost overall compensation.
Experience is another driver. A physician in their first five years typically earns 10‑15% less than a seasoned doctor with 20+ years under their belt. Academic physicians may earn less than their private‑practice counterparts, but they often receive research grants, teaching stipends, and a more predictable schedule.
Work setting also shifts the numbers. Hospital‑employed physicians often get a stable salary plus benefits, while those in private practice can see higher gross earnings but also bear overhead costs like office rent, staff salaries, and malpractice insurance.
Lastly, negotiate wisely. Many doctors accept the first offer, but research market rates, highlight your board certifications, and be ready to discuss productivity metrics. Even a modest 5% raise can add $12,000‑$20,000 to your annual take‑home.
Bottom line: physician pay in the US is good, but it isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all figure. Knowing which specialty you want, where you want to live, and how you plan to practice will help you map out a realistic earnings path. Use this guide as a starting point, then dive deeper into the data that matters most for your career goals.