Dermatologist Salary in the US: Average & Factors Affecting Income

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and other surveys, the average annual salary for a US dermatologist is approximately $416,812. However, wide variation exists.

Key Factors Influencing Income

• Geography: Metro/coastal areas > rural. High-cost-of-living areas pay more but expenses also higher.
• Experience: Early career <$300K; mid-career $400–500K; senior/partner >$600K.
• Subspecialty: Procedural/cosmetic (Mohs, laser, injectables) > medical dermatology. Dermatopathology adds income.
• Practice Model: Private practice owner > employed > academic. Ownership = profit share + asset equity.
• Volume & Mix: High-volume cosmetic = higher RVUs/revenue.
• Reimbursement: Medicare/private payer rates, facility fees, ancillary revenue (skincare, lab).

Additional Compensation

• Bonuses (production, quality, RVU-based)
• Profit sharing / partnership distributions
• Benefits: malpractice, CME, retirement, health, disability

Job Outlook

Projected 14% growth (2019–2029) – much faster than average. Aging population, skin cancer awareness, cosmetic demand drive need.

Note: Salary data varies by source (Medscape, AMGA, MGMA, Doximity). Always benchmark locally.