General Internal Medicine Physician Salary 2025: $256,560 Median, Top States Pay $425k+

How much General Internal Medicine Physicians earn

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median salary of $256,560 for general internal medicine physicians. That means half earn more and half earn less. The mean (average) is $267,200, working out to about $123 per hour on a typical schedule.

Earnings span a huge range. At the 10th percentile, physicians make $73,570 — sometimes reflecting part-time or early-career positions. At the 90th percentile, salaries reach $475,430, typically achieved by experienced physicians in high-demand settings.

Pay by state

Where you practice dramatically affects earnings. The highest-paying state is Georgia, where the average annual wage reaches $425,460. Rhode Island follows at $379,490, Minnesota at $373,700, Wisconsin at $367,160, and Alaska at $366,080.

At the other end, Nevada pays an average of $114,090, New Jersey $89,990, and West Virginia $72,680. These lower figures may reflect differences in cost of living, payer mix, or practice settings.

How to become General Internal Medicine Physician

Becoming a general internal medicine physician takes about 11 to 14 years after high school. The path is rigorous but straightforward.

• Earn a bachelor's degree (4 years), typically with pre-med coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
• Take the MCAT and apply to medical school. Medical school takes 4 years, leading to an M.D. or D.O. degree. Tuition varies widely; public schools may cost $25,000–$50,000 per year, private schools $50,000–$70,000+.
• Complete a residency in internal medicine (3 years) at a hospital or medical center. Residents earn a modest salary (around $60,000–$70,000) during training.
• Obtain a state medical license. Requirements include passing the USMLE (for M.D.) or COMLEX (for D.O.) exams and completing a residency.
• Consider board certification through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). While not mandatory, it's often expected by employers and may boost earning potential.
• Some physicians pursue fellowships in subspecialties (1–3 more years), but general internal medicine does not require one.

Job outlook

Employment of general internal medicine physicians is projected to grow 3.3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 2,100 openings each year, mostly from retirements and replacement needs.

Demand remains steady due to an aging population and increased focus on primary care. However, growth may be tempered by the rising use of nurse practitioners and physician assistants in some roles.

Frequently asked questions