Anesthesiologist Salary: Hourly Pay & Factors Affecting Income

According to AMA and MGMA data, the average hourly wage for US anesthesiologists is approximately $200–$220/hour (2021–2023 data), translating to $400K–$500K+ annually for full-time equivalents.

Major Income Variables

• Experience: Entry ~$150/hr; 10+ years >$250/hr.
• Geography: High-cost metros (NYC, SF, LA) > rural; but adjust for COL.
• Practice Model: Private practice partners > academic > employed hospital.
• Subspecialty: Cardiac, pediatric, pain, critical care > general.
• Case Mix/Volume: High-complexity, high-RVU cases (cardiac, neuro, major ortho).
• Call/Weekend/Shift Differentials: Significant income boosters.
• Ownership: ASC ownership, anesthesia group equity.

Additional Compensation

• Bonuses (productivity, quality, leadership)
• Profit sharing / partnership distributions
• Benefits: malpractice (often paid), retirement (401k/profit-sharing/pension), CME, health, disability, life.

Trends

Growing demand (aging population, surgical volume) + workforce constraints → upward pressure on compensation. Locums rates: $130–$180/hr + housing/travel.