Pediatric Surgeon Salary 2025: Median $559,030, Path & Outlook
Pediatric surgeons earn a median annual salary of $559,030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023 data). The mean wage is $502,050, or about $269 per hour. The top 10% make over $726,660, while the bottom 10% earn under $215,410. Only about 1,190 pediatric surgeons work in the U.S., making this one of the most exclusive medical specialties.
How much Pediatric Surgeons earn
The national median wage for pediatric surgeons is $559,030 per year. That's significantly higher than the median for all physicians and surgeons ($239,200) and far above the typical U.S. occupation. The lowest-paid 10% of pediatric surgeons earn about $215,410, while the highest-paid 10% take home over $726,660. Because the specialty is small, individual salaries can vary widely based on experience, hospital type, and geographic location.
Pay by state
The highest-paying states for pediatric surgeons include Ohio ($488,160 mean annual wage), New York ($378,110), and New Jersey ($288,930). Note that the same three states also appear as lower-paying states in some contexts, reflecting the BLS's small sample size for this occupation. In general, wages tend to be higher in states with larger children's hospitals and academic medical centers. However, because employment is so low (1,190 nationwide), state-level figures should be treated as estimates.
How to become Pediatric Surgeon
Becoming a pediatric surgeon requires at least 13 years of education and training after high school. Here's the typical path:
- Earn a bachelor's degree (4 years), with pre-med coursework (biology, chemistry, physics).
- Attend medical school (4 years) to earn an MD or DO degree.
- Complete a general surgery residency (5 years).
- Finish a pediatric surgery fellowship (2 additional years).
- Obtain a state medical license and board certification in pediatric surgery (through the American Board of Surgery).
- Some surgeons also earn a certification in pediatric advanced life support (PALS).
Job outlook
Employment of pediatric surgeons is projected to grow 1.5% from 2024 to 2034, much slower than the average for all occupations (4%). This limited growth reflects the small size of the specialty and a relatively stable demand for pediatric surgical services. However, because the occupation is tiny (only about 1,190 jobs), even small increases in hiring can be significant. Competition for fellowship positions and attending roles is fierce. Most openings will come from retirements or surgeons leaving the field.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for pediatric surgeons?
According to BLS data, Ohio has the highest mean annual wage at $488,160, followed by New York ($378,110) and New Jersey ($288,930). However, due to the very small sample size (only 1,190 pediatric surgeons nationally), state-level figures should be interpreted cautiously.
How long does it take to become a pediatric surgeon?
The path takes about 13 years after high school: 4 years of undergraduate, 4 years of medical school, 5 years of general surgery residency, and 2 years of pediatric surgery fellowship.
Is there demand for pediatric surgeons?
Demand is very limited. Projected growth is only 1.5% (slower than average) because the specialty is small and already well-staffed. Most openings will replace retiring surgeons.
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 Pediatric Surgeons data.