Obstetricians and gynecologists (OB-GYNs) play a critical role in women’s healthcare, overseeing everything from routine checkups to complex pregnancies and surgeries. As demand for specialized medical professionals continues to grow, the OB-GYN career remains both lucrative and rewarding. In this article, we explore the average OB-GYN salary in 2025, along with the influencing factors, career outlook, and how experience and education shape earnings.
What Is the Average OB-GYN Salary in 2025?
In 2025, the average OB-GYN salary in the United States is approximately $290,000 to $320,000 per year, depending on factors like location, experience, and type of employer. According to healthcare industry projections and physician salary surveys:
Median Salary: $305,000
25th Percentile: $250,000
75th Percentile: $370,000+
This reflects a moderate increase from previous years, largely due to inflation adjustments, rising demand, and expanding healthcare coverage.
Key Factors That Influence OB-GYN Salary
Several elements impact an OB-GYN’s earning potential in 2025:
1. Experience Level
Entry-Level (0–3 years): $220,000 – $260,000
Mid-Career (4–9 years): $270,000 – $310,000
Experienced (10+ years): $320,000 – $400,000+
More experienced OB-GYNs often take on leadership or teaching roles, increasing their earning potential.
2. Geographic Location
High-paying states: California, New York, Florida, and Texas
Rural areas tend to offer higher compensation to attract specialists, sometimes offering signing bonuses or relocation assistance.
3. Type of Employer
Private Practice: Often higher income potential but comes with business overhead.
Hospitals/Healthcare Systems: Stable salaries and benefits with less administrative responsibility.
Academic Institutions: Lower average salary (~$250,000) but better work-life balance and research opportunities.
4. Certifications and Specialization
Board-certified OB-GYNs generally earn more than non-certified peers.
Subspecialties (e.g., maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology) command higher salaries, often exceeding $400,000.
Salary Compared to Other Healthcare Roles
To put OB-GYN compensation in context:
Role | Average Salary (2025) |
---|---|
Peloton Instructor (Top Earners) | ~$500,000 (varies widely) |
Nurse Practitioner | ~$125,000 |
Senior Lead Navigator | ~$105,000 |
SAP Consultant | ~$130,000 |
Despite some unrelated professions seeing niche spikes in income (e.g., Peloton instructors or tech consultants), OB-GYNs maintain a consistently high earning average due to specialized education and clinical demand.
Job Market Trends for OB-GYNs in 2025
Increasing Demand:
Aging population: More women entering reproductive and menopausal stages.
Access to healthcare: Expanded insurance coverage is driving demand for routine and preventative care.
Telehealth: While limited in hands-on specialties, remote consultations for prenatal care and follow-ups are expanding.
Workforce Shortages:
Fewer OB-GYNs are entering the workforce relative to those retiring, creating a supply gap—especially in rural or underserved areas.
Education and Certifications That Impact Salary
To become an OB-GYN, professionals must complete:
Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
Medical School (4 years)
Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology (4 years)
Board Certification (optional but highly recommended)
Additional fellowships (1–3 years) in subspecialties can lead to higher salaries and more specialized roles.
Continuing medical education (CME) and certifications in advanced surgical techniques or new treatment technologies can also enhance salary prospects.
Benefits and Perks
In addition to high base salaries, OB-GYNs often receive:
Sign-on bonuses
Malpractice insurance (especially important in this high-liability field)
Retirement plans and health insurance
Paid continuing education and conference travel
Loan repayment assistance programs, especially for rural or underserved area commitments
Conclusion: Is OB-GYN a Good Career in 2025?
Absolutely. The OB-GYN profession remains one of the most respected and well-compensated medical careers in 2025. With job stability, strong earning potential, and opportunities for specialization, it continues to attract individuals committed to women’s health.
While the road to becoming an OB-GYN is long and rigorous, the return on investment is significant, both financially and professionally.