Orthopedic Surgeons (Except Pediatric) Salary 2025: $358,550 Median, $842,800 Top State
Orthopedic surgeons who don't treat children earn a median salary of $358,550, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to about $172 per hour, with the top 10% pulling in over $659,290 annually. The occupation employs 14,100 people across the U.S., and demand is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.
How much Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric earn
The median annual wage for orthopedic surgeons (excluding pediatric) is $358,550, with a mean wage of $373,570. Entry-level surgeons (10th percentile) earn around $84,170, while experienced surgeons at the 90th percentile can exceed $659,290. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
- National median: $358,550 per year
- Mean hourly wage: $172
- 10th percentile: $84,170
- 90th percentile: $659,290
Pay by state
Missouri tops the list for orthopedic surgeon pay, with an average annual wage of $842,800—more than double the national median. West Virginia follows at $597,740, then Wisconsin ($572,060), Montana ($560,820), and Arizona ($558,970). At the lower end, Texas pays $200,780, Iowa $189,410, and Indiana $177,710. Location clearly drives huge variations in earnings.
How to become Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric
Becoming an orthopedic surgeon requires a long, rigorous path. After earning a bachelor's degree, you must complete medical school (4 years), then a 5-year orthopedic surgery residency. Many surgeons also pursue a 1- to 2-year fellowship in a subspecialty like sports medicine or joint replacement. Licensure requires passing the USMLE and state board exams; board certification from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery is typically expected.
- Bachelor's degree with pre-med coursework
- Medical school (MD or DO) – 4 years
- Orthopedic surgery residency – 5 years
- Optional fellowship – 1–2 years
- State medical license and board certification
Job outlook
Employment of orthopedic surgeons (except pediatric) is projected to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS estimates about 400 job openings per year, largely due to retirements and an aging population needing joint replacements and fracture repairs.
Frequently asked questions
Is $358,550 the average or median salary for orthopedic surgeons?
The median salary is $358,550; the mean (average) is $373,570. Median is more representative because it cuts out very high and low outliers.
Which state pays orthopedic surgeons the most?
Missouri pays the highest average wage at $842,800, followed by West Virginia ($597,740) and Wisconsin ($572,060).
How long does it take to become an orthopedic surgeon?
Typically at least 13 years after high school: 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 5 years of residency. Optional fellowships add 1–2 more years.
What is the job growth for orthopedic surgeons?
The BLS projects 4.1% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 400 openings each year.
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 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric data.