Orthopedic surgeons—also known as orthopedists—play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. As a high-demand specialty within medicine, the compensation for orthopedists remains among the highest in the healthcare field. In this article, we’ll explore the average orthopedist salary in 2025, what affects earnings, and the current job market trends shaping the profession.
Average Orthopedist Salary in 2025
As of 2025, the average annual salary for an orthopedist in the United States is approximately $547,000, according to updated industry reports and physician compensation surveys. This figure reflects both employed and self-employed surgeons across different practice settings and regions.
Entry-level orthopedists: $300,000 – $400,000
Mid-career professionals (5–10 years): $450,000 – $600,000
Experienced orthopedists (15+ years): $600,000 – $800,000+
Key Factors That Influence Orthopedist Salaries
Several variables affect how much an orthopedist can earn, including:
1. Experience and Seniority
Entry-level orthopedists earn less due to a smaller patient base and fewer surgical hours.
Senior professionals, such as department heads or private practice owners, can command significantly higher salaries.
2. Practice Setting
Private Practice: Higher earning potential but greater overhead and risk.
Hospitals and Healthcare Systems: More stability, slightly lower salaries.
Academic Institutions: Lower compensation, but often include research opportunities and benefits.
3. Geographic Location
Orthopedists in rural areas or regions with physician shortages tend to earn more due to demand.
States like North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Alaska consistently report higher average salaries.
4. Subspecialty Certification
Subspecialties like spine surgery, sports medicine, and joint replacement typically earn more than general orthopedic surgeons.
5. Workload and Hours
Surgeons performing more complex or high-volume surgeries often see a direct increase in take-home pay.
Take-Home Pay from a $103K Salary – For Comparison
While not directly tied to orthopedist salaries, understanding general salary take-home pay is useful:
A salary of $103,000 in 2025 typically nets around $72,000–$78,000 annually after taxes, depending on state and deductions.
This comparison highlights the substantial earning potential of the orthopedic field, where even entry-level surgeons may take home double that amount.
Job Market Trends for Orthopedists in 2025
High Demand Continues: The aging U.S. population and increased sports injuries contribute to strong demand for orthopedic care.
Rural Opportunities: Surgeons willing to relocate to underserved areas can negotiate better compensation packages.
Telemedicine and AI: While orthopedics is a hands-on specialty, advancements in pre-op and post-op virtual care are expanding.
Education and Certifications That Impact Salary
To become an orthopedist, extensive education and training are required:
Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
Medical School (4 years)
Orthopedic Residency (5 years)
Optional Fellowship (1–2 years for subspecialties)
Licensing: USMLE or COMLEX exams, board certification from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS)
Additional certifications, continuing education, or involvement in prestigious medical associations can enhance reputation and salary opportunities.
Benefits and Perks Beyond Salary
Besides a high paycheck, orthopedists often enjoy:
Comprehensive health insurance
Malpractice insurance
Retirement plans
Paid continuing education
Generous PTO and parental leave
Conclusion
The orthopedist salary in 2025 reflects both the complexity and critical nature of the profession. With an average income exceeding $500,000, orthopedics offers not just financial rewards, but also career satisfaction and long-term growth. Whether you’re a medical student considering a specialty or a practicing physician evaluating next steps, orthopedics remains a top-tier option in healthcare.