Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric Salary Guide 2025: $300,080 median, job growth, and how to become one
The median annual salary for Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric in the U.S. is $300,080, according to 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bottom 10% earn about $100,180, while top earners make $489,710 or more. The mean hourly wage is roughly $144.
How much Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric earn
The BLS reports that the median salary for these specialists is $300,080 per year. The average salary is slightly higher at $304,650, reflecting a skewed distribution. Most ophthalmologists fall between the 10th percentile ($100,180) and 90th percentile ($489,710).
The highest-paid 10% earn nearly five times the lowest-paid 10%, showing wide variation by experience, location, and practice setting.
- Median: $300,080
- Mean: $304,650
- 10th percentile: $100,180
- 90th percentile: $489,710
- Employment: 8,950
Pay by state
Salaries vary significantly by state. Rhode Island tops the list with an average of $450,370, followed by New Hampshire ($404,330), California ($400,150), Florida ($399,440), and Iowa ($394,900).
At the lower end, Indiana averages $168,600, Louisiana $155,250, and Kentucky $101,940. These differences reflect factors like cost of living, demand, and state policies.
How to become Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric
Becoming an ophthalmologist requires extensive education and training. Start with a bachelor's degree, then pass the MCAT and attend medical school (4 years). After medical school, complete a 1-year internship and a 3-year ophthalmology residency. Many pursue a fellowship for subspecialization.
Licensing is mandatory: pass the USMLE, complete residency, and obtain state licensure. Board certification through the American Board of Ophthalmology is typically required by employers. The path takes at least 12 years after high school.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (pre-med or science).
- Attend medical school (4 years).
- Complete a 1-year internship.
- Finish a 3-year ophthalmology residency.
- Pass USMLE and obtain state medical license.
- Get board certified (optional but expected).
Job outlook
Employment of ophthalmologists (except pediatric) is projected to grow 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 300 new openings each year, driven by an aging population and increased need for eye care.
With only 8,950 current jobs, competition is high. However, demand is strong in underserved areas and for specialties like cataract and glaucoma surgery.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of an Ophthalmologist, Except Pediatric?
The median annual salary is $300,080 (mean $304,650). The typical range is $100,180 to $489,710.
How do you become an Ophthalmologist, Except Pediatric?
The path includes a bachelor's degree, medical school (4 years), a 1-year internship, a 3-year ophthalmology residency, and state licensure. Board certification is recommended.
What is the job outlook for Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric?
Employment is projected to grow 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, with about 300 openings per year. Growth is faster than average due to aging population.
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 Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric data.