Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), also known as physiatry, continues to be a rewarding and growing specialty in the medical field. As the demand for non-surgical pain management and rehabilitation services increases, so does the interest in PM&R physician salaries. In 2026, physiatry salaries remain competitive, with multiple factors influencing total compensation.
📊 Average PM&R Salary in 2026
In 2026, the average annual salary for a PM&R physician in the United States is approximately $285,000–$310,000, depending on experience, practice setting, and geographic location.
Entry-level (0–2 years): $210,000–$240,000
Mid-career (3–9 years): $250,000–$290,000
Experienced (10+ years): $300,000–$350,000
Academic or non-profit roles: Tend to be on the lower end ($200,000–$250,000)
Private practice or partnership roles: Often exceed $350,000 with bonuses and ownership benefits
🧾 Key Factors Influencing PM&R Salary
Several factors influence how much a physiatrist earns in 2026:
1. Geographic Location
High-paying states: California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois
Urban vs. Rural: Urban centers offer higher salaries but often come with higher cost of living
2. Subspecialties and Certifications
Physiatrists with subspecialty certifications or fellowship training often command higher pay:
Pain Medicine: $350,000+
Sports Medicine: $280,000–$320,000
Interventional Spine: $300,000–$400,000
3. Practice Setting
Hospital-employed: Stable income and benefits; $250,000–$290,000
Private Practice: Higher earning potential through ownership and procedures
Locum Tenens or Telehealth: Hourly or per diem rates can be very competitive
4. Education and Certification
Board certification by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR) increases job opportunities and salary.
Additional credentials (e.g., pain medicine subspecialty) often lead to enhanced compensation.
💼 Job Market Trends in 2026
The job outlook for PM&R physicians remains strong and growing:
Aging population: Increases demand for rehabilitation and mobility care
Emphasis on non-surgical treatment: Enhances PM&R’s role in multidisciplinary care
Expanding telemedicine services: Adds flexibility and new income opportunities
More hospitals and outpatient centers are hiring physiatrists to meet growing demand for musculoskeletal, neurological, and chronic pain management care.
💸 Take-Home Pay for a $103K Salary
For reference, a $103,000 salary take-home after federal and state taxes (varies by location) would typically be around $70,000–$76,000 per year depending on:
Tax filing status
State taxes (no income tax states like Texas or Florida offer higher net income)
Benefits and deductions
This comparison helps contextualize why PM&R’s average salary above $285K makes it a highly attractive field.
✅ Benefits of a Career in PM&R
Work-life balance: Often better than other medical specialties
Diverse career paths: From clinical practice to research and education
High job satisfaction: Due to long-term patient relationships and non-surgical care
🎓 Certifications and Education Impact
Medical degree (MD or DO) and residency in PM&R (4 years total)
Optional fellowships (1–2 years): Enhance earning potential
Board certification: Strongly recommended for career advancement and salary boost
🧠 Summary: Why Consider PM&R in 2026?
The PM&R field offers a strong salary, stable job growth, and fulfilling patient relationships. With the right location, training, and subspecialty, a physiatrist can earn well above average and enjoy a meaningful, balanced career.
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