The University of Virginia (UVA) Emergency Medicine (EM) Residency Program is a prestigious training program for aspiring emergency physicians. One of the key factors for prospective residents is compensation. In 2026, UVA’s EM residency salary remains competitive, aligned with national standards and regional living costs.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the UVA EM residency salary, along with salary ranges, influencing factors, job outlook, and more.
🔍 Overview of UVA EM Residency Salary in 2026
Average Annual Salary: $63,000 – $70,000 (depending on PGY level)
Take-home Pay Estimate: Approximately $48,000 – $55,000 after taxes and deductions
Location: Charlottesville, Virginia — moderate cost of living
Salary by PGY (Post-Graduate Year):
PGY-1 (Intern): ~$63,000
PGY-2: ~$66,000
PGY-3: ~$69,000
These figures include base salary and additional stipends such as meal or housing allowances when applicable.
🧾 Factors Influencing Salary
1. Post-Graduate Year (PGY) Level
Higher PGY levels command higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and experience.
2. Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA)
While UVA does not have formal COLA increases, Charlottesville’s cost of living is moderate compared to major urban centers, impacting the real value of take-home pay.
3. Additional Compensation
Some residents may earn more through:
Moonlighting (available typically from PGY-2 onward)
Academic bonuses
On-call or holiday pay
💸 Take-Home Pay for $103K Salary
While $103,000 is more typical for attending physicians or senior positions such as a Lead Navigator or Advanced Practice Provider, here’s a breakdown of what a $103,000 salary might look like in Virginia:
Federal Income Tax: ~$15,000–$18,000
Virginia State Tax: ~$5,000
FICA (Social Security + Medicare): ~$7,800
Estimated Take-Home Pay:
$72,000–$75,000 annually ($6,000/month)
This level of salary typically reflects post-residency roles, not resident pay.
📈 Salary by Experience Level
| Level | Approx. Annual Salary | Role Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Student (Intern) | N/A | No salary, education phase |
| PGY-1 Resident | $63,000 | First year of EM residency |
| PGY-2 Resident | $66,000 | Second year, more responsibility |
| PGY-3 Resident | $69,000 | Senior resident, leadership training |
| EM Attending Physician | $260,000 – $400,000+ | Board-certified, full-time practitioner |
📊 Job Market Trends for Emergency Medicine in 2026
Stable Demand: EM continues to be essential nationwide, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Increased Competition: Slight oversupply in metropolitan regions.
Telemedicine Growth: Some shifts in care delivery affecting urgent care and ED utilization.
Specialized Roles: EM-trained physicians moving into urgent care, critical care, or administrative leadership.
✅ Benefits Provided to UVA EM Residents
UVA offers a robust set of benefits, including:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Life and disability insurance
Paid time off (vacation, sick leave)
Educational stipends (books, exams, conferences)
Wellness programs and mental health services
Meal stipends or on-call food allowance
Free or discounted parking and scrubs
🎓 Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
After residency, certifications and additional education can significantly increase earning potential:
Essential Certifications:
Board Certification in Emergency Medicine
ACLS/PALS/ATLS (required during residency)
Optional (but lucrative) Specializations:
Ultrasound Fellowship
Critical Care Fellowship
Toxicology, Sports Medicine, or EMS Fellowships
Additional degrees (e.g., MPH, MBA) or roles like Medical Director or Hospital Administrator can push salaries well above $300,000.
🧭 Senior Roles: Lead Navigators & Auxano Examples
Though not part of residency, roles such as Senior Lead Navigator (e.g., at Auxano Health or similar organizations) often offer salaries around $100,000–$130,000, depending on location and experience. These jobs may require:
Clinical background (RN, PA, MD)
Leadership and coordination skills
Strong communication and tech proficiency
Such positions are more common in care coordination or administrative tracks post-training.
📌 Final Thoughts
The UVA EM Residency Salary in 2026 offers a competitive and stable foundation for medical trainees. While residency salaries may not match full attending incomes, the training, benefits, and career trajectory make it a worthwhile investment.
By understanding influencing factors and long-term opportunities, residents can make informed choices and prepare for a rewarding future in emergency medicine.
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