As healthcare evolves, the role of Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) specialists and related professionals continues to grow in importance. In 2025, understanding the salary trends, career outlook, and compensation influencing factors for those in ACHD-related roles is essential—especially for professionals considering a career path in this field or negotiating a new contract.
This guide offers a detailed look at ACHD salaries in 2025, including average earnings, job outlook, and what influences pay.
What is the Average ACHD Salary in 2025?
The average salary for professionals specializing in Adult Congenital Heart Disease varies based on role, region, experience, and employer. In 2025:
ACHD Cardiologist (Board-Certified): $250,000–$375,000 annually
ACHD Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant: $100,000–$135,000 annually
ACHD Care Coordinator or Navigator: $70,000–$95,000 annually
These numbers represent national averages and may shift depending on geographic region, institutional funding, or private vs. academic employment settings.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a significant role in compensation:
Entry-Level (0–3 years):
Cardiologist: ~$230,000
NP/PA: ~$95,000
Coordinator: ~$70,000
Mid-Level (4–9 years):
Cardiologist: ~$300,000
NP/PA: ~$115,000
Coordinator: ~$82,000
Senior (10+ years):
Cardiologist: ~$375,000 or more
NP/PA: ~$130,000
Coordinator: ~$95,000+
Key Salary Influencers
Several factors directly impact ACHD salaries in 2025:
Geographic Location: Urban areas or regions with high cost of living (e.g., California, New York) often offer higher salaries.
Work Setting: Academic institutions may offer lower base salaries than private practices but compensate with research opportunities and benefits.
Certifications & Specializations: Additional training in ACHD care, board certification, or cardiac imaging boosts earning potential.
Education Level: Advanced degrees (MD, DNP, or PA-C with cardiac subspecialization) translate to higher pay scales.
Negotiation & Leadership Roles: Titles like Senior Lead Navigator or Program Director may increase salary by $10,000–$30,000.
Example: How Much is Take-Home Pay for a $103K Salary?
With a $103,000 gross annual salary in 2025, here’s a rough breakdown of take-home pay:
Federal Taxes (22% average): ~$22,660
State Taxes (varies): ~$3,000–$6,000
Social Security & Medicare: ~$7,800
Estimated Net Income:
$70,000–$73,000 annually ($5,850/month)
Deductions may vary based on location, benefits, retirement contributions, and filing status.
Benefits Beyond Salary
Most ACHD professionals receive robust benefit packages:
Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave
Continuing Medical Education (CME) Allowances
401(k) or 403(b) Retirement Plans
Malpractice Insurance Coverage (for providers)
These perks contribute significantly to the total compensation package.
Certifications & Education That Impact Salary
Holding specific credentials can elevate salary levels:
ACHD Board Certification (for cardiologists)
ACLS/BLS Certification (for NPs, PAs, nurses)
Certified ACHD Navigator or Care Coordinator Credentials
Master’s or Doctoral Degrees in Nursing or Healthcare Management
Employers value continuous education and specialization, rewarding those who invest in professional growth.
Job Market Trends & Outlook
The demand for ACHD professionals continues to grow in 2025 due to:
Increasing ACHD Patient Population: Adults now outnumber children with congenital heart disease.
Expanded Multidisciplinary Care Models: More hospitals are hiring navigators, NPs, and care teams to meet evolving standards.
Telehealth Growth: ACHD care is becoming more accessible, opening up remote work and hybrid role opportunities.
The job market remains competitive yet promising, particularly for those with specialized training or dual certifications.
Final Thoughts
Salaries for ACHD professionals in 2025 are healthy, with strong growth potential, especially for those who pursue advanced training and certifications. Whether you’re an experienced provider or just entering the field, understanding what influences salary—from education and experience to job setting—can help you make informed career decisions.
ACHD roles are more than jobs—they’re vital positions in a rapidly growing specialty. Investing in your career path now will pay dividends in both financial reward and professional fulfillment.