How Much Do Surgeons Make?
$409,000median annual salary
$196.63/hour · $34,083/month · BLS Code: 29-1248
Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities. They are among the highest-paid and most demanding medical specialties, requiring 13-16 years of post-high school education and training. Neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons are typically the highest earners.
Surgeon Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$65,000
Starting salary
Median
$409,000
50th percentile
Senior Level
$550,000
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$625,000
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Surgeons
#1
Wisconsin
$497,000
#2
Nebraska
$489,000
#3
Alabama
$483,000
#4
Tennessee
$478,000
#5
Indiana
$472,000
Top Paying Cities for Surgeons
Education & Requirements
Education
MD/DO plus 5-7 year surgical residency; often 1-3 year fellowship for subspecialty
Typical Degree
MD or DO + Surgical Residency
Certifications
Job Outlook
+3%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
41_000
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Surgeon Salary FAQ
How much do surgeons make?
The median salary is approximately $409,000. Orthopedic surgeons earn $550,000-$700,000+, and neurosurgeons earn $700,000-$900,000+. General surgeons earn less at $300,000-$450,000.
How long does it take to become a surgeon?
13-16 years after high school: 4 years undergraduate, 4 years medical school, 5-7 years surgical residency, and possibly 1-3 years of fellowship for subspecialty training.
What type of surgeon gets paid the most?
Neurosurgeons ($788,000 median), orthopedic surgeons ($624,000), and cardiac surgeons ($590,000) are typically the highest-paid surgical specialties.
Is surgery a good specialty?
It offers the highest salaries in medicine but demands the longest training, most grueling hours, and highest stress. Work-life balance is challenging but improving with newer practice models.
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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.