In 2025, the salary of a Doctor of Internal Medicine (IM) continues to reflect the vital role they play in healthcare. As specialists in adult medicine, internists diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of medical conditions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of their compensation, including average salaries, influencing factors, job outlook, and how certifications or education can impact earnings.
Average Salary for a Doctor of Internal Medicine in 2025
The average annual salary for a Doctor of Internal Medicine in the United States in 2025 is approximately $265,000. However, salaries can vary significantly based on location, experience, subspecialty, and type of employment.
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Starting salary (0–3 years): $180,000 – $210,000
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Mid-career (4–10 years): $220,000 – $280,000
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Experienced (10+ years): $290,000 – $340,000
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Subspecialists (e.g., cardiology, gastroenterology): $350,000 – $600,000+
Factors Influencing Salary
Several variables affect an internal medicine physician’s salary in 2025:
1. Location
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Urban areas with high demand offer higher compensation.
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States like California, New York, and Texas report above-average salaries.
2. Work Setting
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Private Practice: Often higher earning potential but with added operational costs.
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Hospitals or Medical Groups: Competitive salaries with benefits and stability.
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Academic or Research Roles: Lower salaries but enhanced prestige and job security.
3. Experience and Reputation
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Seasoned doctors often command higher salaries, especially if they have leadership roles or own practices.
4. Certifications and Specialization
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Board-certified internists or those with additional certifications in subspecialties can significantly increase earning potential.
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Subspecialties often require 1–3 more years of fellowship training.
Job Market Trends in 2025
The demand for internal medicine doctors remains strong due to several factors:
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Aging population: Increasing need for chronic disease management and geriatric care.
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Primary care shortage: Internists often serve in primary care roles, especially in underserved areas.
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Telemedicine expansion: Offers flexibility and new revenue opportunities.
Job Growth Outlook:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 3-5% growth in physician jobs through 2030, with internal medicine remaining a key specialty.
Education and Certification Requirements
To become an internal medicine doctor, the path includes:
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Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
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Medical School (4 years)
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Internal Medicine Residency (3 years)
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Optional Subspecialty Fellowship (1–3 years)
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Board Certification from ABIM (American Board of Internal Medicine)
Additional certifications (e.g., ACLS, subspecialty boards) can boost salary and employment opportunities.
Take-Home Pay for a $103,000 Salary: A Comparison
Although not typical for a full-time internal medicine physician, part-time internists, those in academia, or early-career roles may earn closer to $103,000. After taxes and deductions:
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Federal and state tax: ~20–30%
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Net take-home: Approximately $72,000 – $80,000/year
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Monthly net pay: Around $6,000 – $6,600
This comparison highlights the value of certifications and specialization, which significantly impact gross and net earnings.
Additional Benefits Beyond Salary
Many internists receive robust benefits, which add significant value:
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Health, dental, and vision insurance
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Retirement contributions (401(k), pensions)
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Malpractice insurance coverage
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Continuing medical education (CME) stipends
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Paid vacation and sick leave
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Signing bonuses or relocation assistance
How Internal Medicine Salary Compares to Other Professions in 2025
| Profession | Average Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| Internal Medicine Doctor | $265,000 |
| Peloton Instructor (Top Tier) | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
| Lead Software Engineer (Tech) | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Senior Lead Navigator (Healthcare) | $85,000 – $120,000 |
This comparison demonstrates how the salary of internal medicine doctors remains competitive, especially given the length and cost of medical education.
Conclusion: Is Internal Medicine a Good Career in 2025?
Yes—becoming a Doctor of Internal Medicine in 2025 offers strong earning potential, job security, and opportunities for growth, especially for those willing to pursue subspecialties or leadership roles. Despite the long path to practice, the financial and personal rewards can be substantial, particularly for those committed to patient care and continuous learning.
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