GI Physician Salary in 2025

Gastroenterology (GI) is a highly specialized and rewarding medical field. As of 2025, GI physicians remain among the top-earning medical specialists in the United States. With growing demand for digestive health services and an aging population, the career outlook for GI doctors is not only stable but also promising. This article provides a comprehensive overview of GI physician salaries in 2025, including influencing factors, experience-based pay, benefits, and market trends.

Average GI Physician Salary in 2025

In 2025, the average salary for a GI physician in the U.S. ranges from $420,000 to $600,000 annually, depending on several key factors. According to recent industry surveys and compensation reports:

Entry-level GI physicians (0–3 years experience): $350,000–$450,000/year
Mid-career GI physicians (4–10 years experience): $450,000–$550,000/year
Experienced GI physicians (10+ years): $550,000–$650,000+/year

Gastroenterologists performing more advanced procedures such as endoscopic ultrasounds (EUS), ERCPs, and capsule endoscopy may earn significantly more.

Factors That Influence a GI Physician’s Salary

Several variables can affect how much a GI physician earns in 2025:

1. Geographic Location

Urban areas may offer higher salaries due to demand but can also have more competition.
Rural or underserved regions often offer signing bonuses, relocation support, and higher pay to attract specialists.

2. Practice Setting

Private Practice: Higher income potential, especially for partners.
Hospital-Employed: More stability, lower overhead, and comprehensive benefits.
Academic Institutions: Typically lower salaries but include research and teaching opportunities.

3. Subspecialization

Advanced training or a focus in hepatology, IBD, or advanced endoscopy can lead to premium compensation.

4. Workload and Procedure Volume

High patient volumes and procedural revenue contribute to increased earnings, particularly in fee-for-service models.

Salary by Experience Level

Experience Level	Average Annual Salary (2025)
0–3 Years	$350,000 – $450,000
4–10 Years	$450,000 – $550,000
10+ Years	$550,000 – $650,000+

GI physicians who move into leadership roles (e.g., medical directors, department heads) may command even higher salaries.

Benefits and Perks

Beyond base salary, GI physicians often receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) or 403(b) retirement plans with employer matching
CME (Continuing Medical Education) reimbursement
Malpractice insurance
Signing bonuses and relocation allowances
Profit-sharing or equity in private practice settings

Job Market Trends for GI Physicians in 2025

1. High Demand Continues

With an aging population and increasing prevalence of GI disorders like colorectal cancer, demand for GI specialists is on the rise.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued growth for physician specialists over the next decade.

2. Shortage of Specialists

A limited number of GI fellowship slots contributes to a supply-demand imbalance, keeping compensation competitive.

3. Shift Toward Outpatient Procedures

Many GI services are now performed in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs), improving efficiency and profitability.

Education, Certifications, and Their Impact on Salary

To become a gastroenterologist, one must complete:

Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
Medical School (4 years)
Internal Medicine Residency (3 years)
GI Fellowship (2–3 years)

Certifications That Boost Earning Potential:

ABIM Certification in Gastroenterology
Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship Certification
Hepatology Board Certification

Maintaining board certification and subspecialty training can significantly increase a physician’s marketability and salary.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, GI physicians continue to enjoy some of the highest salaries in medicine, driven by high demand, specialized skills, and an aging population. While the path to becoming a gastroenterologist is long and rigorous, the financial and professional rewards are substantial. With ongoing innovations in diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, the future remains bright for GI specialists.