Psychiatrist Salary Guide 2025: $281,870 Median, Outlook & How to Become One
The median psychiatrist in the U.S. earns $281,870 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $136 an hour. The top 10% pull in over $446,520, while the bottom 10% make around $84,060—often reflecting those in early training or public-sector roles. With 27,980 practicing psychiatrists nationwide and a faster-than-average growth rate, this is a high-reward field that demands a long educational commitment.
How much Psychiatrists earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $269,940 for psychiatrists, with a median of $281,870. The typical range spans from $84,060 at the 10th percentile to $446,520 at the 90th. These figures come from the May 2023 OEWS survey and reflect all employed psychiatrists, including those in private practice, hospitals, and outpatient clinics.
- Median annual salary: $281,870
- Mean hourly wage: ~$136
- 10th percentile: $84,060
- 90th percentile: $446,520
- Total employed: 27,980
Pay by state
Geography matters a lot for psychiatrist pay. The top-paying state is California at a mean of $353,500, followed closely by Louisiana ($345,040), Alaska ($342,170), Minnesota ($336,410), and Wisconsin ($331,070). At the lower end, Arkansas averages $124,750, Idaho $75,470, and West Virginia $63,320. These differences often reflect cost of living, state funding for mental health, and local demand.
How to become Psychiatrist
Becoming a psychiatrist takes about 12 years after high school. The path is: a 4-year bachelor's degree (pre-med or science major), 4 years of medical school (MD or DO), and 4 years of a psychiatry residency. After residency, you must pass the USMLE or COMLEX and obtain a state medical license. Board certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology is voluntary but strongly preferred by employers.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (biology, chemistry, or psychology common)
- Complete medical school (4 years)
- Pass USMLE or COMLEX for medical licensure
- Finish a 4-year psychiatry residency program
- Obtain state medical license
- Optional: board certification in psychiatry
Job outlook
The BLS projects 6.1% employment growth for psychiatrists from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 900 new openings per year, driven by increasing demand for mental health services and an aging population. Combined with retirements, opportunities should be strong, especially in underserved rural areas and states with lower current psychiatrist density.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a psychiatrist in the U.S.?
The mean annual wage is $269,940, and the median is $281,870, according to the BLS.
Which state pays psychiatrists the most?
California pays the highest mean salary at $353,500, followed by Louisiana ($345,040) and Alaska ($342,170).
How long does it take to become a psychiatrist?
About 12 years after high school: 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 4 years of psychiatry residency.
Is the job outlook for psychiatrists good?
Yes, the BLS projects 6.1% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 900 openings annually.
What is the lowest-paying state for psychiatrists?
West Virginia has the lowest mean salary at $63,320, followed by Idaho ($75,470) and Arkansas ($124,750).
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 Psychiatrists data.