How Much Do Pediatricians Make?
$190,350median annual salary
$91.51/hour · $15,863/month · BLS Code: 29-1221
Pediatricians are physicians who specialize in the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. They provide preventive care, diagnose childhood diseases, and manage chronic conditions. Pediatrics is known for being one of the lower-paying physician specialties but offers high satisfaction.
Pediatrician Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$62,000
Starting salary
Median
$190,350
50th percentile
Senior Level
$250,000
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$300,000
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Pediatricians
#1
Alaska
$242,190
#2
Wisconsin
$238,600
#3
Mississippi
$234,820
#4
Kansas
$231,540
#5
Alabama
$228,670
Top Paying Cities for Pediatricians
Education & Requirements
Education
MD/DO plus 3-year pediatrics residency; subspecialty fellowship optional
Typical Degree
MD or DO + Pediatrics Residency
Certifications
Job Outlook
+2%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
35_600
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Pediatrician Salary FAQ
How much do pediatricians make?
The median salary is about $190,350. This is among the lower-paying physician specialties, but still far above the national median income. Pediatric subspecialists (cardiology, surgery) earn more.
How long does it take to become a pediatrician?
11 years after high school: 4 years undergraduate, 4 years medical school, and 3 years pediatrics residency. Subspecialty fellowships add 3 more years.
Why do pediatricians make less than other doctors?
Pediatrics is a primary care specialty (lower-paying than procedural specialties), treats a generally healthy population, and many patients have Medicaid (lower reimbursement rates). Despite lower pay, satisfaction scores are among the highest.
Is pediatrics a good specialty?
For those who love working with children, yes. It offers excellent work-life balance compared to surgery/ER, high job satisfaction, and steady demand. The trade-off is lower salary compared to other medical specialties.
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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.