Pediatrician Career Growth, Job Prospects & Salary Outlook

Role Overview

Pediatricians specialize in the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents, diagnosing and treating conditions ranging from common illnesses to complex chronic diseases.

Employment Growth

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% employment growth for pediatricians from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Key drivers include:

• Rising demand for pediatric care: The U.S. child and adolescent population is growing.
• Pediatrician shortage: Retirements and fewer medical students choosing pediatrics sustain a workforce gap.
• Aging population: While primarily adult-focused, an aging society increases overall healthcare utilization, indirectly supporting pediatric services.

Practice Settings

Pediatricians find employment in:

• Hospitals (inpatient, emergency, outpatient)
• Private practice
• Government agencies (CDC, FDA, state/local health departments)
• Academic institutions (teaching, research)

Salary

The median annual wage was $183,240 in May 2020. The top 10% earned over $208,000; the bottom 10% earned under $129,380.

Work Schedule

Most work full-time; some work evenings, weekends, or travel for conferences and professional development.

Conclusion

The pediatric field is poised for steady growth. With strong education, compassionate care, and commitment to lifelong learning, pediatricians are well-positioned to positively impact children's health and well-being.