Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine Salary in 2025

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are highly skilled medical professionals who emphasize a holistic approach to healthcare. With a focus on the body’s musculoskeletal system and a commitment to treating the whole patient, DOs are gaining recognition within the medical field. As of 2025, DOs can expect competitive salaries, with various factors influencing their earnings. This article provides a detailed look at the salary of DOs in 2025, including factors that affect earnings, the salary range by experience, job market trends, and the benefits of pursuing this medical path.

Average Salary Range for Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine in 2025

In 2025, Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) continue to earn impressive salaries, comparable to their MD counterparts. However, salaries can vary based on factors like specialty, geographic location, and years of experience.

Average Salary: On average, DOs can expect to earn between $200,000 and $350,000 annually. The salary can be higher for those who work in specialized areas or high-demand locations.
Salary by Specialization: Just like MDs, DOs who specialize in certain fields such as surgery, cardiology, or dermatology tend to earn higher salaries. Specialists may earn as much as $400,000 to $500,000 per year or more.
Salary by Region: Salaries vary significantly based on geographic location, with urban areas or regions facing a shortage of healthcare professionals offering higher pay to attract talent.

Factors Influencing Earnings for DOs

Several factors contribute to the variation in salary for Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine:

1. Experience Level

Entry-Level (0-5 years): DOs just starting their careers typically earn around $200,000 – $250,000 annually, depending on the location and specialty.
Mid-Career (5-15 years): With more experience, DOs can earn anywhere from $250,000 – $350,000 annually.
Experienced (15+ years): Senior DOs with significant experience or those in leadership roles can earn $350,000 or more per year.

2. Specialty

DOs who specialize in high-demand fields like orthopedics, surgery, or cardiology can earn significantly more than those in general practice.
Specialists can expect salaries upwards of $400,000 annually, while primary care specialties typically offer salaries in the $200,000 – $250,000 range.

3. Geographic Location

DOs practicing in rural or underserved areas may receive higher compensation packages, including bonuses and incentives, to attract healthcare providers to these regions.
Urban areas with a high cost of living generally offer higher salaries, but the competition can also be more intense.

4. Type of Practice

Private Practice vs. Hospital Employment: DOs working in private practice or owning their practice often have the potential for higher earnings, although they also bear additional business expenses. Hospital-employed DOs may have more stable salaries with additional benefits.

Job Market Trends for DOs in 2025

Growing Demand: The demand for healthcare professionals, including osteopathic physicians, is expected to continue growing in 2025. As the U.S. population ages, the need for doctors in primary care, especially those focused on holistic and preventive health, will increase.
Integration into Mainstream Medicine: More hospitals and healthcare systems are hiring DOs as the osteopathic philosophy of treating the whole patient becomes increasingly recognized in mainstream medicine. This trend has positively impacted salaries and job prospects for DOs.
Telemedicine Opportunities: The rise of telemedicine also presents new opportunities for DOs to consult with patients remotely, providing flexibility and additional income streams.

Education and Certification Impacting Salary

Education

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) Degree: Becoming a DO requires completing an undergraduate degree followed by four years of medical school at an accredited osteopathic medical school. Afterward, DOs must complete internships, residencies, and fellowships in their chosen specialty.
Postgraduate Training: DOs who pursue fellowship training in subspecialties can expect higher salaries as their expertise increases.

Certifications and Continuing Education

Board Certification: Board certification in a particular specialty or subspecialty (such as internal medicine, surgery, or family medicine) can result in higher pay. DOs who are board-certified in their specialty may earn 10-20% more than their non-certified peers.
Additional Credentials: Some DOs may pursue further certifications or additional training, such as in sports medicine, geriatric care, or integrative medicine, which can lead to higher-paying opportunities.

Benefits of Being a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

Holistic Approach: DOs are trained to take a whole-person approach to care, emphasizing prevention, lifestyle changes, and a deeper understanding of the musculoskeletal system.
Work-Life Balance: Many DOs report better work-life balance compared to their MD counterparts, particularly those who work in primary care or outpatient settings.
Job Security: The demand for healthcare professionals, especially those with a holistic approach, is high, ensuring job security for DOs. Their unique skill set also makes them competitive candidates for a wide range of medical positions.

Job Outlook for DOs in 2025

The job outlook for Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine is strong, with an increasing number of medical schools offering osteopathic programs and the growing recognition of osteopathic medicine within the healthcare community.

Growth in Primary Care: DOs in primary care fields, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics, are in high demand due to the increasing focus on preventive care and overall well-being.
Rural and Underserved Areas: DOs who choose to work in rural or underserved areas may find additional incentives, including student loan repayment assistance and higher salaries.

Conclusion

In 2025, Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine continue to earn competitive salaries, with the potential for higher earnings based on experience, specialization, location, and type of practice. The growing recognition of osteopathic medicine, combined with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, ensures a positive job outlook for DOs. By pursuing advanced certifications and continuing education, DOs can further enhance their earning potential and career satisfaction. The profession offers not only financial rewards but also the satisfaction of providing holistic care to patients.