Because of the state’s high cost of living, strong healthcare system, and strong demand for medical experts, California is home to some of the highest-paid physicians in the country. The earnings of doctors in a variety of fields are excellent and frequently exceed the national average. This article examines the Highest Paid Doctors in California, their mean compensation, and the variables that affect them.
- Highest Paid Doctors in California 2025
- Neurosurgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Radiation Oncology
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Conclusion
Highest Paid Doctors in California 2025
Neurosurgery | $763,908 |
Thoracic Surgery | $720,634 |
Orthopedic Surgery | $654,815 |
Plastic Surgery | $619,812 |
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery | $603,623 |
Radiation Oncology | $569,170 |
Cardiology | $565,485 |
Vascular Surgery | $556,070 |
Gastroenterology | $514,208 |
Oncology | $479,754 |
Neurosurgery
The highest-paid physician on our list is a neurosurgeon. Surgery of the brain, spinal cord/column, and peripheral nerves is referred to as neurosurgery. A minimum of seven years of residency is required of aspiring neurosurgeons. Neurosurgeons rank first on our list with an average yearly salary of $763,908 each year.
Thoracic Surgery
The heart, lungs, and esophagus are among the organs in the chest that thoracic surgeons operate on. Lung disease, heart failure, and congenital heart anomalies are among the numerous ailments that cardiothoracic surgeons diagnose and treat. The average yearly compensation for thoracic surgeons is $720,634.
Orthopedic Surgery
These surgeons handle a wide range of ailments affecting the joints, muscles, tendons, and skeletal system. In recent years, orthopedics has become the most lucrative specialty for physicians. An orthopedic surgeon in the United States makes, on average, $654,815 a year.
Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgeons operate on nearly every bodily component, both cosmetically and reconstructively. With a six-year duration, plastic surgery residencies are among the longest. A plastic surgeon makes, on average, $619,812 a year.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons address conditions, abnormalities, and injuries in the face, neck, head, jaws, and surrounding region, even though this is a dentistry specialty. The average yearly compensation for these surgeons is $603,623.
Radiation Oncology
Radiation oncologists are experts in utilizing radiation treatment to treat cancer. They supervise the patient’s treatment and make sure they are aware of the advantages and disadvantages of radiation treatment. The average salary for radiation oncologists is $569,170 per year.
Cardiology
The diagnosis, management, and prevention of disorders affecting the cardiovascular system are the main goals of cardiology. A specialty in cardiology often pays well, however, this might vary based on your area of expertise. The average yearly compensation for a cardiologist is $565,485.
Vascular Surgery
A variety of open operations and less invasive treatments affecting your blood vessels are together referred to as vascular surgery. Aneurysms, deep vein thrombosis, and blood clots are among the ailments that are treated by vascular surgery. The average yearly compensation for vascular surgeons is $556,070.
Gastroenterology
Diseases of the stomach, esophagus, rectum, colon, small intestine, pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder, and liver are among the conditions that gastroenterologists treat and diagnose. Gastroenterologists typically earn $514,208 per year.
Oncology
The diagnosis, management, and therapy of cancer are the main concerns of oncologists. They supervise patients’ care, talk with them about their options and treatment regimens, and offer post-operative care. The average yearly compensation for oncologists is $479,754.
Conclusion
Because of its robust Highest Paid Doctors in California, California pays some of the highest wages for physicians. At the top of the list, with an average pay of $763,908, are neurosurgeons, who are followed by orthopedic and thoracic surgeons. Earnings are impacted by variables including specialty, length of residency, and skill. California is a great place for high-paying jobs, and aspiring physicians may anticipate rich prospects in the medical industry.