Doctor Starting Salaries by Country and Specialty (2024)

Physician Starting Salaries: International Comparison

Starting salaries for doctors vary widely by country, specialty, and healthcare system. Figures represent approximate annual base compensation for new graduates entering practice (currency as noted).

United States (USD)

• Primary Care Physician: $208,000
• Surgeon: $251,000
• Radiologist: $315,000
• Anesthesiologist: $352,000
• Psychiatrist: $216,000

Canada (CAD)

• Primary Care Physician: $180,000
• Surgeon: $250,000
• Radiologist: $300,000
• Anesthesiologist: $330,000
• Psychiatrist: $200,000

United Kingdom (GBP)

• Primary Care Physician (GP): £45,000
• Surgeon: £55,000
• Radiologist: £65,000
• Anesthesiologist: £60,000
• Psychiatrist: £40,000

Australia (AUD)

• Primary Care Physician: $150,000
• Surgeon: $250,000
• Radiologist: $300,000
• Anesthesiologist: $350,000
• Psychiatrist: $200,000

New Zealand (NZD)

• Primary Care Physician: $140,000
• Surgeon: $250,000
• Radiologist: $300,000
• Anesthesiologist: $350,000
• Psychiatrist: $200,000

Important Notes

• Figures are estimates for starting salaries; experienced physicians earn significantly more.
• Compensation structures differ: US often fee-for-service; UK/Canada/Australia/NZ typically salaried or blended.
• Benefits, malpractice insurance, taxes, and cost of living greatly affect net income.
• Data sourced from 2023–2024 physician compensation surveys (Medscape, Doximity, national medical associations).