Surgery PA Salary in 2025

The role of a Surgical Physician Assistant (PA) remains one of the most in-demand and rewarding healthcare careers in 2025. As surgical procedures become more advanced and patient volumes increase, the value of skilled PAs in operating rooms continues to rise. If you’re considering this profession or planning to negotiate your salary, understanding current compensation trends is crucial.

📊 Average Salary Range for Surgery PAs in 2025

In 2025, Surgical PAs earn an average annual salary between $103,000 and $155,000, depending on several key variables such as experience, location, and specialization.

• Entry-level (0–2 years): $95,000 – $110,000

• Mid-level (3–7 years): $115,000 – $135,000

• Senior/Lead PA (8+ years): $140,000 – $160,000+

Note: Surgical PAs working in metropolitan areas or high-demand specialties (e.g., cardiothoracic surgery) often report salaries exceeding $170,000 annually.

💼 Factors Influencing a Surgery PA’s Earnings

Several factors impact how much a Surgery PA can make in 2025:

• Experience Level: More experience often equals higher salary and better bonuses.

• Location: States like California, New York, and Texas tend to offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living.

• Type of Surgery: Specializing in neurosurgery or cardiovascular surgery may increase earnings due to complexity and extended hours.

• Work Setting: PAs in large hospitals or academic centers often earn more than those in private clinics.

• Certifications: Holding a CAQ (Certificate of Added Qualifications) in surgery can boost your earning potential.

🪙 Take-Home Pay on a $103K Salary

A $103,000 salary in 2025 typically results in a take-home pay of around $72,000–$76,000 annually after federal, state, and Social Security/Medicare taxes, depending on your filing status and state tax rates.

Monthly Breakdown:

• Gross Monthly: ~$8,583

• Estimated Net Monthly (after taxes): ~$6,000 – $6,300

📈 Job Market Trends in 2025

The demand for Surgical PAs remains strong in 2025 due to several reasons:

• Aging Population: Increased surgical needs from older adults.

• Physician Shortages: More reliance on PAs in surgical teams.

• Legislative Support: Continued expansion of PA scope of practice in many states.

In-Demand Specialties:

• Orthopedic Surgery

• Cardiothoracic Surgery

• Neurosurgery

• General Surgery with trauma experience

🎓 Education, Certifications & Career Advancement

To become a Surgical PA, one must:

1. Earn a Master’s Degree from an ARC-PA-accredited PA program.

2. Pass the PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam).

3. Obtain a state license.

4. Optional Certification:

   • CAQ in Surgery (Certificate of Added Qualifications), highly regarded and often rewarded with salary increases or leadership roles.

Leadership Track:

PAs who take on administrative roles, such as Lead Surgical PA or Senior Clinical Navigator, can command salaries upward of $160,000–$180,000.

✅ Benefits and Perks

Beyond salary, Surgery PAs typically enjoy robust benefits packages, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) with matching

• Continuing education reimbursement

• Malpractice insurance

• Paid time off and CME days

• Performance bonuses and overtime pay

🚀 Career Outlook for Surgery PAs

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 27% increase in PA employment between 2022 and 2032—much faster than the average across all occupations. Surgical PAs are particularly well-positioned, given their crucial role in both inpatient and outpatient procedures.

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Final Thoughts

A career as a Surgery PA in 2025 offers excellent compensation, strong job security, and a clear path for advancement. By obtaining the right certifications, gaining experience, and choosing high-demand surgical specialties, Physician Assistants can enjoy lucrative and fulfilling careers in surgery.