Physician Salary in the US: Median, Range & Factors Influencing Earnings

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physicians and surgeons was $208,000 in May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $71,600, and the highest 10% earned more than $340,360.

The earnings of doctors of medicine can vary depending on a number of factors, including:

* Specialty: Some specialties, such as plastic surgery and cardiology, are more lucrative than others, such as pediatrics and family medicine.

* Geographic location: The cost of living in a particular area can also affect a doctor's earnings. Doctors in high-cost areas, such as New York City and San Francisco, tend to earn more than doctors in low-cost areas, such as rural areas.

* Years of experience: Doctors with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience.

* Employer: Doctors who work for hospitals or clinics tend to earn more than those who work in private practice.

* Business acumen: Doctors who are able to successfully manage their own practices can earn more than those who are not.

In addition to their base salary, doctors may also earn additional income through bonuses, incentives, and malpractice insurance payments.