Physician Salary Determinants: Specialty, Setting, Location, Experience, Education

A doctor's salary varies based on:

• Specialty: Surgical/procedural > primary care
• Practice setting: Hospital, private practice, academic, locum tenens
• Geographic location: Metro vs. rural, state/region differences
• Experience: Years in practice, reputation
• Education/training: Fellowships, board certifications, advanced degrees
• Production model: RVU-based, salary, hybrid

Median physician compensation ranges from ~$230K (pediatrics) to ~$500K+ (neurosurgery, orthopedics) per recent surveys. Total compensation includes bonuses, benefits, retirement.