How Much Do Doctors Make

Doctors, like most other professionals, depend on a variety of factors when it comes to their salary. From experience to specialty, location to reputation, the amount a doctor makes can be incredibly varied. However, a few trends are obvious.

To put it simply, the more experience a doctor has, the higher their salary tends to be. Within each specialty, experience is a major factor. In addition, doctors who work in cities or larger metropolitan areas typically make more than those who practice in rural areas.

In general, the average doctor makes between $163,000 and $250,000 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Primary care physicians tend to make on the lower end of that range, while specialists will typically make $200,000 or higher. Doctors that work in lower-paying areas, or who are just starting out, may make less than the average.

Within specialties, there is also a big difference in how much doctors make. As you might expect, surgeons tend to make the most, though this all depends on the specialization. For example, ear, nose, and throat surgeons make an average of $500,000, while pediatricians make closer to $100,000.

In addition to salary, doctors who work in private practices often benefit from bonuses and other profit-based incentives. By running their own practice, they can increase their earnings and build a successful business.

Ultimately, doctor salaries vary greatly across a variety of factors. Marrying experience to location, specialty, and other factors all have an effect on the amount a doctor makes. However, on the whole, those in the medical profession can look forward to a healthy, steady salary.