Pediatricians, General Salary 2025: $210,040 Median, Job Outlook, and How to Become One
The median salary for general pediatricians in the U.S. is $210,040 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That's roughly $101 per hour. But the pay range is huge: the lowest-earning 10% make around $91,470, while the top 10% take home over $338,500.
About 39,390 pediatricians work nationwide, a number that's growing very slowly—0.8% over the next decade—but still producing about 1,200 new openings each year due to retirements and turnover. If you're considering this path, the money is solid, but the real draw is the work itself: diagnosing and treating kids from infancy through adolescence.
How much Pediatricians, General earn
The BLS reports a national mean wage of $212,110 for general pediatricians, with a median of $210,040. Hourly, the median works out to about $101. Your actual pay depends on experience, location, practice type—private practice vs. hospital employment—and the patient population you serve.
The broad salary spread reflects the variety in pediatric practice. Early-career docs in smaller towns or less lucrative settings earn near the 10th percentile ($91,470), while seasoned specialists or those in high-demand rural areas can top $338,500.
Pay by state
Where you practice matters a lot. Five states pay general pediatricians well above the national median. Louisiana leads at $502,720—more than double the U.S. median—followed by Idaho ($297,680), New Hampshire ($273,410), Montana ($273,260), and Wisconsin ($269,790).
On the low end, West Virginia pays $158,470, Georgia $149,990, and the District of Columbia just $79,240. That's a huge variation driven by local demand, cost of living, and state health policies.
How to become Pediatricians, General
The road to becoming a general pediatrician takes about 11 years after high school: four years of college, four years of medical school, and three years in a pediatric residency program.
After residency, you must pass the American Board of Pediatrics exam to become board-certified, and you'll need a state medical license to practice. Some pediatricians pursue additional fellowship training, but general practice doesn't require it.
- Earn a bachelor's degree with pre-med coursework (biology, chemistry, physics).
- Attend medical school and earn an MD or DO degree (four years).
- Complete a three-year pediatric residency at a teaching hospital.
- Pass the USMLE or COMLEX exams during medical school.
- Obtain a state medical license.
- Achieve board certification from the American Board of Pediatrics.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of general pediatricians will grow 0.8% from 2024 to 2034—slower than the average for all occupations. That's modest, but about 1,200 job openings are expected each year, mostly to replace retiring doctors.
Competition is higher in desirable metro areas, but underserved rural and inner-city regions offer strong demand and often higher starting pay. The field remains stable, with pediatric care a constant need.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a general pediatrician?
Entry-level pediatricians typically earn around the 10th percentile of $91,470, though starting pay varies by location and practice setting.
How long does it take to become a general pediatrician?
About 11 years after high school: 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 3 years of pediatric residency.
Is pediatrician a growing career?
Growth is slow at 0.8% over 10 years, but with 1,200 openings per year due to retirements, it's a stable field.
Which state pays pediatricians the most?
Louisiana has the highest average pay at $502,720, followed by Idaho, New Hampshire, Montana, and Wisconsin.
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 Pediatricians, General data.