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How Much Money Does a Surgeon Make in the US?

February 03, 2023 · 3 min read

The salary of a surgeon can vary depending on many factors, such as location, years of experience, and the type of practice. In general, surgeons who work in urban areas tend to earn more than those who work in rural areas. Surgeons working in private practice also tend to earn more than those working in academic or government settings.


In the United States, some of the highest-paying states for surgeons include California, New York, Texas, Florida, and Illinois. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for surgeons in California was $428,000 in 2020. New York was the second highest paying state, with an average salary of $421,000, and Texas was the third highest paying state, with an average salary of $414,000.

In terms of metropolitan areas, the highest-paying cities for surgeons include San Francisco, New York City, and Los Angeles. According to data from the BLS, the average annual salary for surgeons in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA metropolitan area was $489,000 in 2020. The average salary for surgeons in the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA metropolitan area was $459,000, and the average salary for surgeons in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA metropolitan area was $447,000.

It's worth noting that these salaries are just averages and can vary depending on factors such as the specific surgical specialty, years of experience, and the type of practice. It's also important to note that the cost of living in these areas is typically higher than in other parts of the country.


Some of the highest-paying surgical specialties include neurosurgery, cardiothoracic surgery, orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, and urologic surgery. Within these specialties, some surgeons may earn more than others depending on their level of experience, location, and type of practice.

Other important factors to consider include the job outlook for the specialty, the availability of training programs, the quality of life in the location, and the opportunity for professional growth and advancement.

It's also important to note that while high-paying surgical specialties and locations can provide a good income, they also come with additional responsibilities and high-stress environments, as well as long working hours. 

It's essential for individuals considering a career in surgery to carefully research and consider the requirements, demands, and rewards of different surgical specialties and locations before making a decision.


 

What is the highest-paid Surgeon Job?

The most highly-paid type of surgeon is typically a neurosurgeon, a surgeon who specializes in the treatment of conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord. They perform a wide range of procedures such as brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, and cerebrovascular disorders. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for neurosurgeons in the United States was $616,823 in 2020.

Neurosurgeons who work in private practice tend to earn more than those who work in academic or government settings. Additionally, neurosurgeons working in urban areas tend to earn more than those working in rural areas. It's also important to note that while neurosurgery is the most highly-paid surgical specialty, it also requires a significant amount of training and experience to become proficient .

by Olena Kukhtyk

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