How Much Do Doctors Make?
$229,300median annual salary
$110.24/hour · $19,108/month · BLS Code: 29-1210
Physicians diagnose and treat injuries, illnesses, and disorders. They examine patients, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans. Becoming a doctor requires 11-15 years of education and training after high school, but it remains one of the highest-paid professions.
Physician Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$62,500
Starting salary
Median
$229,300
50th percentile
Senior Level
$350,000
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$400,000
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Doctors
#1
Kentucky
$298,050
#2
Tennessee
$291,640
#3
Alabama
$289,530
#4
Indiana
$285,120
#5
Georgia
$283,750
Top Paying Cities for Doctors
Education & Requirements
Education
Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) plus 3-7 years of residency training
Typical Degree
MD or DO
Certifications
Job Outlook
+3%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
727,000
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Physician Salary FAQ
How much do doctors make a year?
The median annual salary for physicians is about $229,300, but this varies enormously by specialty. Primary care doctors earn around $220,000-$260,000, while surgeons and specialists can earn $350,000-$600,000+.
What is the highest paid doctor specialty?
Neurosurgery ($788,000), orthopedic surgery ($624,000), and cardiology ($560,000) are typically the highest-paid specialties. Anesthesiology ($405,000) and radiology ($437,000) are also very high-paying.
How long does it take to become a doctor?
Typically 11-15 years after high school: 4 years of undergraduate education, 4 years of medical school, and 3-7 years of residency depending on the specialty.
Is becoming a doctor worth it financially?
Despite high incomes, doctors often graduate with $200,000-$300,000 in medical school debt and don't earn full salaries until their early-to-mid 30s. However, lifetime earnings typically exceed $6-10 million, making it financially rewarding long-term.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.