Physician Assistants (PAs) specializing in cardiology continue to be in high demand due to the growing burden of cardiovascular disease and an aging population. In 2025, the salary outlook for cardiology PAs reflects this demand, along with the increasing complexity of their roles. Whether you’re a practicing PA looking to specialize or a student exploring career paths, understanding the compensation landscape is essential.
🩺 What Is the Average Cardiology PA Salary in 2025?
In 2025, Cardiology PAs earn an average annual salary of $127,000 to $145,000, depending on various factors like geographic location, years of experience, subspecialties, and employer type.
Median National Salary: $136,000
High-End Salary Range: $160,000+ (for experienced PAs or those in high-demand urban areas)
Entry-Level Salary: Around $105,000–$115,000
Compared to general PAs, who earn an average of around $120,000, cardiology PAs tend to earn 10–20% more, largely due to their specialized skill set and patient population.
💡 Key Factors That Influence Cardiology PA Salary
Several factors influence earnings in cardiology, including:
1. Experience Level
0–2 Years: $105,000–$120,000
3–5 Years: $125,000–$135,000
6–10 Years: $140,000–$155,000
10+ Years: $155,000–$170,000+
2. Location
States and cities with higher living costs often offer higher pay:
Top-paying states: California, New York, Massachusetts, Washington, and Texas
Rural vs. Urban: Urban areas tend to pay more, but rural regions may offer additional benefits like loan forgiveness or relocation bonuses.
3. Type of Practice
Academic hospitals: Slightly lower base salary but strong benefits and research opportunities
Private practices: Higher earning potential and bonus structures
Large hospital systems: Competitive salaries, solid benefits, and job security
4. Certifications and Education
Holding certifications such as Cardiovascular Physician Assistant-Certified (CV-PA-C) or advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) can boost your salary by 5–10%.
📈 Job Market Trends for Cardiology PAs in 2025
The job outlook for cardiology PAs in 2025 is exceptionally positive.
Projected Growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects PA employment to grow by 27% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average.
Aging Population: The rise in chronic cardiac conditions, particularly among baby boomers, fuels demand.
Value-Based Care: Hospitals and practices increasingly rely on PAs for cost-effective, quality care.
These trends make cardiology one of the most lucrative and stable specialties within the PA profession.
🎓 Education and Certifications That Affect Earnings
While a master’s degree from an accredited PA program is required, specialized training in cardiology or additional certifications can influence your earning power:
Key Certifications:
NCCPA Certification (mandatory)
ACLS/BLS Certifications
Cardiology Fellowship Programs (optional but beneficial)
CV-PA-C (Cardiovascular Certified PA)
Investing in continuing education not only boosts salary but also opens doors to leadership roles.
💼 Benefits Beyond Salary
In addition to competitive salaries, most cardiology PAs enjoy:
Comprehensive health insurance
401(k) or 403(b) retirement plans with employer matching
CME (Continuing Medical Education) allowances
Paid time off and sick leave
Malpractice insurance coverage
Flexible scheduling or 4-day workweeks
Some practices may also offer profit-sharing, relocation assistance, or student loan repayment programs, particularly in underserved areas.
🧭 Career Outlook and Advancement Opportunities
Cardiology PAs can evolve into:
Lead or Senior PAs
Clinical educators
Cardiac device specialists
Practice managers or administrators
With 10+ years of experience and additional certifications, many cardiology PAs break into the $160K–$180K income range, including bonuses.
📌 Final Thoughts
The cardiology PA salary in 2025 reflects the increasing complexity and critical need for specialized care. With a national average of over $136,000 annually, excellent benefits, and a strong job outlook, this career path is both financially rewarding and professionally fulfilling. By investing in certifications, gaining experience, and working in high-demand regions, physician assistants in cardiology can significantly boost their earning potential.