Dermatology Physician Assistant (Derm PA) Salary in 2026

The role of a Dermatology Physician Assistant (Derm PA) has gained increasing recognition in recent years. Derm PAs specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin conditions under the supervision of a dermatologist. With the rise in demand for dermatological services, the salary prospects for Derm PAs in 2026 are competitive. This article provides an in-depth look at the salary range for Derm PAs, factors influencing earnings, job market trends, and more.

Average Salary Range for Derm PAs in 2026

In 2026, the average annual salary for a Dermatology Physician Assistant in the United States is expected to range between $100,000 and $120,000. However, salaries can vary significantly based on several factors, including geographic location, years of experience, and the type of practice in which the Derm PA works.

Salary Breakdown by Location

Urban Areas: Derm PAs in major cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, can expect salaries closer to the higher end of the range, between $115,000 and $130,000 annually. This is due to the higher demand for dermatological services and the cost of living in these areas.
Rural Areas: In less populated areas, salaries typically fall between $90,000 and $100,000 annually, as the cost of living is lower and the demand for services may not be as high.

Factors Influencing Derm PA Earnings

Several key factors can affect the salary of a Dermatology Physician Assistant:

Experience: Like many medical professions, experience plays a significant role in determining salary. Derm PAs with more years of practice are likely to earn higher salaries compared to those just entering the field.
Specialization: Derm PAs who specialize in specific areas such as cosmetic dermatology, pediatric dermatology, or dermatologic surgery may earn higher salaries due to the specialized skills required.
Work Setting: Derm PAs who work in private dermatology practices or medical spas may earn more than those employed by hospitals or government-run clinics. Private practices often offer higher compensation packages to attract skilled professionals.
Geography: The location of the job plays a huge role in salary variations. Areas with a higher cost of living or more affluent populations tend to offer higher salaries. Urban centers often pay more due to the increased demand for dermatological services.

Salary by Experience

Experience is one of the most significant factors influencing the salary of a Derm PA. Here is a breakdown based on years of experience:

Entry-Level (0-2 years): Derm PAs with less than two years of experience can expect to earn between $90,000 and $105,000 annually. Entry-level salaries may vary depending on location and employer.
Mid-Career (3-5 years): Derm PAs with three to five years of experience typically earn between $105,000 and $115,000 annually. At this stage, Derm PAs have honed their skills and have a stronger professional reputation.
Experienced (5+ years): Derm PAs with over five years of experience can expect to earn between $115,000 and $130,000 annually, with the potential for additional income through bonuses, profit-sharing, and other incentives.

Job Market Trends in 2026

The job market for Dermatology Physician Assistants is expected to remain strong in 2026 due to the increasing demand for dermatological care. As more people seek treatments for common skin conditions, anti-aging services, and cosmetic procedures, the need for skilled Derm PAs will continue to grow.

Demand for Dermatology Services: With the aging population and the rise of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, dermatologists and Derm PAs will see continued demand for their services.
Growing Cosmetic Dermatology Market: There has been a significant rise in interest for cosmetic dermatology, including Botox, fillers, and laser treatments. Derm PAs who specialize in these areas can expect higher pay and more job opportunities.
Advancements in Telemedicine: The growing acceptance of telemedicine and virtual dermatology consultations provides new job opportunities for Derm PAs, especially in underserved areas.

Benefits of Being a Derm PA

In addition to competitive salaries, Dermatology Physician Assistants enjoy a variety of benefits:

Health Insurance: Most employers provide comprehensive health insurance packages for Derm PAs and their families, covering medical, dental, and vision care.
Retirement Plans: Derm PAs typically have access to retirement savings plans such as 401(k) or 403(b) plans, often with employer matching contributions.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Many Derm PAs receive paid vacation time, sick days, and paid holidays, contributing to a better work-life balance.
Continuing Education: Employers often provide financial support for Derm PAs to attend conferences, workshops, and other educational opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in dermatology.

Job Outlook for Derm PAs

The job outlook for Dermatology Physician Assistants is highly favorable in 2026. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for physician assistants in general is expected to grow by 31% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is primarily driven by an aging population and increasing healthcare access.

Derm PAs who specialize in dermatology will see a similar increase in demand, particularly as cosmetic dermatology and minimally invasive procedures gain popularity. As a result, job opportunities will continue to expand, especially in urban areas, private practices, and cosmetic clinics.

Impact of Education and Certifications on Salary

Education and certifications can significantly impact a Derm PA’s salary. To become a Derm PA, candidates must:

Obtain a Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies: A master’s degree from an accredited program is required to practice as a PA. Derm PAs also typically complete rotations in dermatology during their education.
Board Certification: While not required, obtaining board certification through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) can make Derm PAs more competitive in the job market and increase earning potential.
Specialized Training: Some Derm PAs may pursue additional certifications or training in subspecialties such as cosmetic dermatology or dermatologic surgery, which can lead to higher salaries.

Conclusion

The salary of a Dermatology Physician Assistant in 2026 is expected to range between $100,000 and $120,000 annually, with variations based on experience, location, and specialization. With a favorable job outlook, numerous benefits, and ample room for career growth, becoming a Derm PA is a rewarding and lucrative career choice. Continuing education, specialized training, and board certifications can also help Derm PAs further increase their earnings and advance in their careers.