DO vs. MD Doctor Salary in 2026

In the world of healthcare, both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and Medical Doctors (MD) play vital roles in providing care. While the core functions of both types of doctors are similar, there are distinct differences in their education, training, and approach to patient care. This article explores the salary differences between DOs and MDs in 2026, including factors influencing their earnings, salary progression by experience, job market trends, and the certifications that may affect their pay.

Understanding DO vs. MD

• MD (Medical Doctor): MDs are trained in allopathic medicine, which focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases primarily through medications, surgeries, and other conventional methods. MDs attend medical school, followed by a residency program and, if applicable, fellowships in specialized fields.
• DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine): DOs are also fully licensed physicians, but they take a more holistic approach to healthcare. Their training includes osteopathic manipulation, a hands-on method used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. DOs undergo similar educational paths to MDs but with added emphasis on musculoskeletal health.

Average Salary Comparison in 2026

MD Salary in 2026

• Median Salary: MDs, depending on their specialization, can expect a broad salary range. On average, a general MD earns between $200,000 and $300,000 annually in the U.S.
• Specialized MDs: MDs in specialized fields such as orthopedics, cardiology, and dermatology can earn considerably higher salaries, ranging from $400,000 to $700,000 or more annually.

DO Salary in 2026

• Median Salary: DOs earn a median annual salary of $195,000 to $250,000.
• Specialized DOs: Like MDs, DOs in specialized fields such as surgery, sports medicine, or emergency medicine can earn significantly more, ranging from $350,000 to $600,000, depending on the specialty and location.

Factors Influencing DO vs. MD Salary

1. Specialization:
   • Both DOs and MDs who specialize in high-demand fields such as surgery, cardiology, and anesthesiology tend to earn more than general practitioners.
   • MDs are slightly more common in certain specialties (e.g., neurosurgery), but DOs can also earn high salaries in specialties like osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) or family medicine.
2. Experience:
   • Early Career (0-5 years): Entry-level MDs and DOs earn roughly $200,000 to $250,000 annually, depending on location and specialty.
   • Mid-Career (5-10 years): With more experience, MDs and DOs can see their salaries increase to between $300,000 and $500,000 annually, especially if they work in high-demand specialties.
   • Experienced (10+ years): Senior-level physicians in both MD and DO categories can command salaries of $500,000 and above, particularly if they have specialized knowledge or management roles.
3. Location:
   • Physicians working in urban areas or regions with high costs of living often earn higher salaries due to the demand for medical professionals in these locations.
   • Rural areas may offer higher pay to attract physicians, but job availability may be limited.
4. Work Setting:
   • Those working in hospitals, private practices, or academic institutions may have different salary scales based on institutional pay structures.
   • Physicians in private practice may have the potential to earn more, especially if they attract a large patient base or own multiple practices.

Job Market Trends for DO vs. MD in 2026

• Job Growth: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physicians and surgeons is expected to grow by 3% from 2023 to 2033, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for healthcare services, especially in aging populations, is contributing to this growth.
• Increased Opportunities for DOs: The acceptance of DOs in various specialties is growing, and more hospitals and medical centers are actively recruiting DOs due to their holistic approach to patient care.
• Telemedicine: Both MDs and DOs have opportunities to participate in telemedicine, which has grown significantly post-pandemic. This allows for a flexible work environment and broader reach, potentially increasing earning opportunities.

Certifications and Education Impacting Salary

• MD Certifications: MDs who pursue board certifications in specialized areas can expect higher salaries. For example, certified cardiologists or orthopedic surgeons typically earn more than general practitioners.
• DO Certifications: DOs can also obtain additional certifications, particularly in osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT). These credentials allow DOs to specialize further and increase their earning potential in areas like musculoskeletal health.

Benefits of Being a DO or MD

Both MDs and DOs enjoy several benefits:

• Job Security: The healthcare industry is growing, with physicians being in high demand globally.
• Professional Satisfaction: Both MDs and DOs have opportunities to make a significant difference in patients’ lives, whether through traditional or holistic treatment methods.
• Flexibility: Doctors have diverse career options, from clinical practice to academic roles, research, or healthcare administration.

Conclusion

In 2026, both DOs and MDs enjoy rewarding and well-compensated careers in medicine. While MDs may earn slightly higher salaries, particularly in specialized fields, DOs also have lucrative opportunities in holistic care and specialized fields. Factors like specialization, experience, location, and certifications play a significant role in determining earnings for both types of doctors. Regardless of the path you choose, both careers offer strong job prospects and the ability to make a lasting impact in healthcare.