Average Doctor Salary in USA for General Physicians, Surgeons & Specialists

Written by

Dr. Indu K

Reviewed by

Dr. Rini Sharma
Doctor Salary in USA
Created On : Jul 04, 2025 Updated On : Jul 08, 2025 3 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Doctor salaries in the U.S. depend on specialty, experience, and location.
  • Surgeons and specialists tend to earn more than general physicians, but even primary care roles are well-compensated.
  • If you’re an International Medical Graduate (IMG),  you will have to pass the USMLE to become a doctor in the USA.

The United States is the number one country and it is a dream for many to become a doctor there. It is also one of the most rewarding countries to practice medicine, both in terms of career growth and salary. But how much do doctors actually earn here? And how can an international medical graduate (IMG) become a registered doctor in the USA?

In this blog, you’ll get a breakdown of average doctor salaries in the U.S. for general physicians, surgeons, and specialists in 2025. Plus, a quick overview of the USMLE exam pathway that international doctors must follow to practice in the States.

Average Doctor Salaries in the USA (2025)

Doctor salaries in the U.S. vary. It depends on your specialty, experience, and location. But here’s a snapshot to start with:

Doctor TypeAverage Salary (2025)In Indian Rupees
General PhysiciansUSD 225,000 – 260,000INR 1.8 crore – 2.1 crore
SurgeonsUSD 400,000 – 525,000+INR 3.2 crore – 4.2 crore
Medical SpecialistsUSD 300,000 – 450,000INR 2.4 crore – 3.6 crore

Average Doctor Salary in the USA by Specialty (2025)

Medical SpecialtyAverage Salary (USD)In INR (Approx.)
Neurosurgery$600,000 – $750,000₹4.8 – ₹6 crore
Orthopedic Surgery$550,000 – $700,000₹4.4 – ₹5.6 crore
Cardiology$500,000 – $650,000₹4 – ₹5.2 crore
Dermatology$400,000 – $500,000₹3.2 – ₹4 crore
Anesthesiology$400,000 – $480,000₹3.2 – ₹3.9 crore
Radiology$380,000 – $470,000₹3 – ₹3.7 crore
General Surgery$350,000 – $450,000₹2.8 – ₹3.6 crore
Internal Medicine$230,000 – $260,000₹1.84 – ₹2.1 crore
Family Medicine$220,000 – $240,000₹1.76 – ₹1.92 crore
Pediatrics$210,000 – $230,000₹1.68 – ₹1.84 crore

Average Doctor Salary in USA by City (2025)

CityAverage Salary (USD)Top-Earning Specialties
New York City$270,000 – $500,000Cardiology, Dermatology
Los Angeles$280,000 – $520,000Surgery, Radiology
Houston$300,000 – $550,000Orthopedics, Internal Medicine
Chicago$270,000 – $480,000Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry
Boston$260,000 – $450,000Pediatrics, Neurology
Miami$240,000 – $470,000Family Medicine, Anesthesiology
Dallas$290,000 – $520,000Radiology, General Surgery
San Francisco$250,000 – $500,000OB/GYN, Psychiatry
Atlanta$270,000 – $490,000Neurology, Internal Medicine
Phoenix$260,000 – $470,000Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine

What Affects Doctor Salaries in the USA?

It’s not just your degree that determines your paycheck. Here’s what plays a role:

  • Some specialties like neurosurgery, orthopedics, naturally pay more due to the complexity or demand.
  • Doctors who are new earn less, but their salaries grow over time.
  • Rural areas often pay more to attract doctors, but cities offer more jobs.
  • Private practice may offer higher income, but hospitals come with job security and benefits.
  • More procedures, more calls, and longer hours can translate to higher pay.

Does this excite you? Are you dreaming of practicing medicine in the U.S.?

Wondering if you’re eligible to take the USMLE and start your journey?

If you’re an international medical graduate or a final-year MBBS student, there’s a good chance you can.

 

Doctor Salary Growth Over Time (USA)

Experience LevelAverage Salary (USD)
Residency (PGY1–PGY3)$60,000 – $75,000
1–3 years post-residency$180,000 – $250,000
4–7 years$250,000 – $350,000
8–10 years$350,000 – $450,000
10+ years$450,000 – $600,000+

Top 5 Tips to Maximize Your Salary as a Doctor in the USA

Even after getting licensed in the U.S., not all doctors earn the same. Here’s how you can boost your earning potential as a physician in the U.S.:

1. Choose a High-Paying Specialty

Specialties like neurosurgery, cardiology, and orthopedic surgery offer significantly higher pay. The more in-demand and procedure-intensive the field, the better the salary.

2. Work in High-Incentive States or Rural Areas

States like Montana, South Dakota, and Alaska offer higher salaries and signing bonuses to attract doctors. Rural hospitals often provide loan forgiveness and better benefits.

3. Negotiate Your Contracts

Never accept the first offer. Hiring hospitals expect negotiation. Use salary benchmarks (like Medscape or Doximity reports) and consider getting help from a contract review expert.

4. Take On Additional Roles or Shifts

Extra on-call hours, administrative roles, or teaching positions at academic hospitals can add $20,000–$100,000 annually.

How Can IMGs Become Doctors in the U.S.?

If you are an international medical graduate wondering, “Can I ever earn that kind of salary?”, the answer is yes. However first, you need to get licensed in the U.S.

Here’s how the process works.

Step 1: Take the USMLE 

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a three-step exam every doctor must clear.

  • Step 1: Tests your understanding of basic medical sciences.
  • Step 2: Assesses your clinical knowledge and application.
  • Step 3: Checks if you can apply that knowledge independently as a licensed physician.

Most IMGs complete Step 1 and Step 2 before applying for residency. Step 3 is usually done during or after residency.

It is always better to enroll in a USMLE Preparation Course. Because it will guide you more effectively through the 3 steps and make your journey easier. For example, Academically’s USMLE preparation course is best out there. In this course you will get live and recorded lectures, study materials, practice questions, AI-based mock test, personalised guidance and more. 

 

Step 2: Get ECFMG Certified

To apply for residency in the U.S., you need ECFMG certification. This means:

  • Passing Step 1 and Step 2 
  • Verifying your medical school credentials

Step 3: Apply for U.S. Residency

Next comes the residency. Residency in the U.S. typically lasts 3–7 years, depending on the specialty. It’s competitive, but doable, especially if you plan smart and start early.

Step 4: Complete Step 3 and Get State Licensure

Once you pass Step 3 and complete residency, you can apply for state medical licensure and start working as a board-certified doctor in the U.S.

Is it Worth for IMGs?

The journey to becoming a licensed doctor in the U.S. is long and demanding — but also incredibly rewarding.

You’re not just working toward a higher salary. You’re opening doors to:

  • World-class medical infrastructure
  • Career stability
  • Growth opportunities
  • A better life for you and your family

Thousands of IMGs have made this journey. If they can do it, so can you.

Also Read: Highest paying countries for doctors

Final Words

It is a dream for many to become a doctor in the USA. The high salaries give satisfaction for the hard work, skill, and responsibility involved. If you are a general physician, surgeon, or specialist, the U.S. offers excellent compensation and career advancement possibilities. 

For IMGs, understanding the USMLE process and preparing smartly is key to turning that dream into reality.

If you have further questions on how to become a doctor in the USA or need preparation guidance, contact us.

 

FAQs

Q. What is the highest-paying medical specialty in the U.S.?

A. The highest paying medical specialties are neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and cardiology. These have consistently ranked among the highest-paying specialties.

Q. Can Indian doctors practice in the USA?

A. Yes, but Indian doctors must clear the USMLE exams. They also have to complete U.S. residency before practicing independently.

Q. How long does it take for an IMG to become a licensed doctor in the U.S.?

A. For an IMG to become a licensed doctor in the U.S, it typically takes 5-7 years. This includes USMLE preparation, residency, and licensure.

Q. Do all IMGs get matched into residency programs?

A. Not all. but many do. Success depends on scores, clinical experience, research, and interview performance.

Q. Is U.S. residency paid?

A. Yes. Residents earn around AUD 60,000–75,000/year. This depends on the hospital and location.

Dr. Indu K
Dr. Indu K
about the author

Dr. Indu K is a dentist with one year of clinical experience. She seamlessly transitioned into content writing three years ago. Her passion lies in making complex medical information accessible to everyone. She uses her unique blend of medical knowledge and exceptional writing skills to bridge the gap between healthcare and the general audience.

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