Dermatologist Salary 2025: $328,730 Median, Job Growth Beats Average
The median dermatologist in the U.S. earns $328,730 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's roughly $158 an hour — putting this specialty among the highest-paid medical professions. The full range is wide: from $102,810 at the 10th percentile to $578,560 at the 90th. Only about 11,370 dermatologists work nationwide, so competition for residencies and jobs is stiff, but the payoff can be enormous.
How much Dermatologists earn
The BLS's May 2023 data (latest as of 2025) shows dermatologists earning a mean annual wage of $323,530, with a median of $328,730. The top 10% pull in over $578,560, while the bottom 10% earn less than $102,810. That bottom figure often reflects part-time or early-career roles; established physicians easily clear six figures.
Pay varies drastically by practice setting. Hospital-employed dermatologists tend to earn less than those in private practice. Specialization within dermatology — like Mohs surgery or cosmetic procedures — can also boost income significantly above the median.
Pay by state
Location heavily determines a dermatologist's paycheck. Minnesota tops the list at $625,790 average, followed by Washington ($526,170), New Hampshire ($516,230), Maryland ($442,210), and Delaware ($442,120). At the other end, Connecticut pays just $165,040 on average, with Kentucky ($195,830) and Texas ($218,670) also on the low side.
The huge gap — over $460,000 between Minnesota and Connecticut — reflects differences in cost of living, demand, and state-level insurance reimbursement rates. Midwest and Northeast states tend to offer higher pay, while sunbelt states often compensate less.
- Highest: Minnesota $625,790
- Highest: Washington $526,170
- Highest: New Hampshire $516,230
- Lowest: Connecticut $165,040
- Lowest: Kentucky $195,830
- Lowest: Texas $218,670
How to become a Dermatologist
Becoming a dermatologist takes at least 12 years after high school: four years of college (with pre-med coursework), four years of medical school (earning an MD or DO), and a four-year dermatology residency. A one- or two-year fellowship in a subspecialty is optional but common.
After residency, you must pass the American Board of Dermatology exam to become board-certified. State medical licensure is also required. The process is competitive — dermatology residencies have fewer spots than many other specialties.
- Earn a bachelor's degree with pre-med requirements.
- Graduate from an accredited medical school.
- Complete a 4-year dermatology residency.
- Pass the board certification exam.
- Obtain a state medical license.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 6.4% employment growth for dermatologists between 2024 and 2034 — faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 400 new openings per year, partly due to retirements and partly because of rising demand for skin cancer treatment and cosmetic procedures.
An aging population fuels skin cancer diagnoses, while younger patients seek acne and aesthetic care. Still, with only 11,370 dermatologists in the U.S., the field remains small — and competition for top markets will continue.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average dermatologist salary in 2025?
The BLS reports a median salary of $328,730 and a mean of $323,530 as of May 2023, the most recent data available for 2025 projections.
How long does it take to become a dermatologist?
It takes about 12 years after high school: 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 4 years of dermatology residency. Board certification adds more time.
Is dermatology a growing field?
Yes, the BLS projects 6.4% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with roughly 400 new openings per year.
Which state pays dermatologists the most?
Minnesota pays the highest average salary at $625,790, followed by Washington and New Hampshire.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Dermatologists data.