If you’re pursuing a career in cardiology, understanding the salary expectations during your fellowship in 2025 is crucial. A cardiology fellowship is one of the most demanding and rewarding paths in medicine. However, compensation during this specialized training phase is modest compared to post-fellowship earnings. This article explores the average cardiology fellowship salary in 2025, along with key salary factors, benefits, job market trends, and educational milestones that influence pay.
Average Cardiology Fellowship Salary in 2025
In 2025, the average annual salary for a cardiology fellow in the United States is approximately $72,000 to $85,000, depending on the institution and region. While this may be significantly lower than the salary of a practicing cardiologist (which ranges from $400,000 to $600,000+), it reflects a structured training period typically lasting 3 years.
Key Factors That Influence Cardiology Fellowship Salary
Several variables affect how much a cardiology fellow earns during their training:
1. Geographic Location
Salaries vary widely by region. Urban centers with higher living costs, like New York or San Francisco, often offer higher stipends.
Rural or less competitive regions may offer more modest stipends but provide better benefits or work-life balance.
2. Institution Type
University hospitals may offer lower salaries but more robust academic resources.
Private hospitals or hybrid institutions may offer slightly higher compensation but more clinical workload.
3. Years of Experience
First-year fellows earn less than second- or third-year fellows. Incremental raises are common as fellows advance.
PGY-4: ~$72,000
PGY-5: ~$77,000
PGY-6: ~$82,000
4. Supplemental Income
On-call bonuses, moonlighting opportunities, and research grants can boost income during fellowship.
Job Market Trends in Cardiology (2025 Outlook)
The cardiology job market remains strong and stable in 2025. According to healthcare employment forecasts:
There is a projected 10% growth in demand for cardiologists over the next decade.
Subspecialties like interventional cardiology and electrophysiology are in especially high demand.
Telemedicine integration is creating new roles for remote monitoring and diagnostics, enhancing flexibility for future cardiologists.
Benefits Provided During Fellowship
Despite moderate salaries, cardiology fellows often receive a comprehensive benefits package:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan contributions (403(b)/401(k))
Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, CME)
Malpractice coverage
Housing stipends in some high-cost regions
These benefits significantly enhance the overall compensation package.
Certifications and Education That Impact Future Earnings
While fellowship salaries are relatively fixed, the following factors can boost post-fellowship income:
Board Certification in Cardiology: Mandatory for most high-paying roles.
Subspecialty Certification: In interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, or advanced heart failure can increase starting salaries by $50,000–$100,000+.
Additional Training: MBA, MPH, or informatics certifications can lead to administrative or academic leadership roles.
How Much Do You Take Home on a $103K Salary?
Some fellows may earn more through moonlighting or dual training paths. If you bring in $103,000 annually, your take-home pay after federal taxes, FICA, and basic benefits could be approximately $70,000–$75,000, depending on state taxes and deductions.
Comparison with Other Medical Fields
Peloton Instructor Salary: While not medical, top instructors may earn $500K+, but without long training.
Scribe/Navigator/Auxiliary Roles: Entry medical roles like senior lead navigator or scribe earn $40K–$70K, often without extensive education.
Test Proctors (e.g., Latpen Test Salary): Average around $30K–$50K, offering far less long-term income potential.
In contrast, cardiology fellows trade short-term pay for long-term gains in both compensation and impact.
Final Thoughts
The cardiology fellowship salary in 2025 may not reflect the full financial rewards of the profession, but it’s an essential step in a highly lucrative and respected career path. By understanding salary influencers, maximizing benefits, and positioning yourself with the right certifications, you can set the stage for a high-paying, fulfilling future in cardiology.