Embarking on a medical career not only offers the profound satisfaction of saving lives but also presents substantial financial rewards. In 2025, physician salaries in the United States have reached remarkable heights, reflecting both the expertise required and the dedication involved in the field.​

Specialization significantly influences a physician's earning potential. According to recent data, the following specialties offer some of the highest average annual compensations:​

• Neurosurgery: $763,908​

• Thoracic Surgery: $720,634​

• Orthopedic Surgery: $654,815​

• Plastic Surgery: $619,812​

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: $603,623​

• Radiation Oncology: $569,170​

• Cardiology: $565,485​

• Vascular Surgery: $556,070​

• Radiology: $531,983​

• Urology: $529,140​

• Gastroenterology: $514,208​

• Otolaryngology (ENT): $502,543​

• Anesthesiology: $494,522​

• Dermatology: $493,659​

• Oncology: $479,754​

• Ophthalmology: $468,581​

• General Surgery: $464,071​

• Colon and Rectal Surgery: $455,282​

• Pulmonology: $410,905​

• Emergency Medicine: $398,990​

Physician salaries are influenced by several factors, including:

• Location: Urban centers often offer higher salaries, though the cost of living is also elevated.​

• Experience: More experienced physicians typically command higher wages.​

• Work Setting: Private practices, hospitals, and academic institutions may offer differing compensation packages.​

• Demand: Specialties facing shortages or high patient demand can lead to increased salaries.​

Geographic location significantly impacts physician salaries. For instance, Richmond, Virginia, ranks among the top five highest-paying cities for emergency medicine physicians, with an annual mean salary of $420,640, notably higher than the national median for this specialty. ​

A career in medicine is both rewarding and lucrative. With average salaries averaging around $352,000 per year, physicians are well-compensated for their expertise and commitment. Specializing in high-demand fields can further enhance earning potential, making medicine a compelling career choice for those passionate about making a difference while achieving financial success.