Neurosurgeon Salary Insights and Trends: Know Your Pay in 2023

How much money does a neurosurgeon make?

Neurosurgery is a complex and highly specialized field that plays a crucial role in treating disorders of the brain, spine, and nervous system.

Aspiring neurosurgeons invest years of rigorous education and training to acquire the necessary skills for this demanding profession and it is no wonder that these professionals make a good amount of money.

As of May 2023, the median salary for Neurosurgeons in the United States is $659,601, with a salary range spanning from $496,601 to $834,601.

The field of neurosurgery offers numerous subspecialties, including pediatric neurosurgery, spine surgery, and functional neurosurgery, each with its own salary range and demand.

The complexity and risk associated with neurosurgery, along with the scarcity of qualified neurosurgeons, contribute to the high earning potential in this field.

In this guide, we will delve into the world of neurosurgeon salaries, exploring the factors that influence earnings, regional variations, salary trends, and projections for the future.

We will also provide tips on how neurosurgeons can maximize their income and navigate the negotiation process effectively. So let’s get started!

Neurosurgeon Salary Trends and Projections


The field of neurosurgery is expected to experience steady growth in the coming years.

Advancements in medical technology, an aging population, and increased awareness of neurological conditions contribute to the demand for neurosurgeons.

As the field expands, the demand for qualified neurosurgeons is expected to remain high, which can positively impact salaries.

However, it's important to note that salary trends can be influenced by various factors, including healthcare policies, reimbursement changes, and market dynamics.

Neurosurgeons must adapt to evolving trends, stay abreast of advancements in the field, and continuously enhance their skills to maximize their earning potential.

For instance, technological advancements have significantly influenced the practice of neurosurgery, leading to improved surgical techniques, diagnostic tools, and treatment options.

Neurosurgeons who stay updated with the latest technologies and incorporate them into their practice may have a competitive edge and potentially command higher salaries.

Hiration pro tip:
If you are an aspiring neurosurgeon, consider doing ample research on specific regional trends, stay informed about market demands, and strive for excellence in your field to position yourself for favorable salary opportunities.

Also Read: How to make a medical school CV in 2023?

Factors Affecting Neurosurgeon Salary


As stated earlier, many factors come into play when it comes to determining a neurosurgeon’s salary. Given below are some factors that largely influence their income:

Experience and Specialization


Neurosurgeons' salaries often increase with years of experience and expertise in the field.

As neurosurgeons gain more knowledge and skills, they become eligible for complex procedures and higher-paying opportunities.

Entry-level neurosurgeons may start with a lower salary but can expect significant increases with time.

For instance, neurosurgeons with less than a year of experience earn an average annual salary of $202,942, while those with over 40 years of experience earn an average of $746,000.

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Geographic Location


Location plays an important role when it comes to influencing the average neurosurgeon's salary.

In areas with high demand and low supply of neurosurgeons, salaries tend to be higher. For instance, major metropolitan areas or regions with prestigious medical institutions often offer higher salaries to attract and retain top talent.

On the other hand, rural or less populated areas may have lower average salaries. Additionally, it's important to consider the cost of living in different locations when evaluating neurosurgeon salary figures.

Given below are some city-based neurosurgeon salaries in the US:

Los Angeles, CA $181,236
Tampa, FL $165,182
Austin, TX $142,749
Everett, WA $112,609
Colorado Springs, CO $48,428

Also Read: What are some of the best 6-figure jobs that you can land in 2023?

Type of Healthcare Facility or Practice


The type of healthcare facility or practice a neurosurgeon works in can influence their salary.

For instance, neurosurgeons employed by large hospitals, academic medical centers, or renowned private clinics may receive higher salaries compared to those working in smaller or less prestigious settings.

Additionally, neurosurgeons who establish their own successful private practice can potentially earn higher incomes. The nature of the practice, such as whether it is focused on general neurosurgery or specialized areas, can also impact their earning potential.

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Tips for Maximizing Neurosurgeon Salary


If you are a seasoned neurosurgeon, given below are some tips you can follow to maximize your earnings:

Negotiate Contracts and Benefits


Put in the time to research and understand the market value. Familiarize yourself with the average salaries and compensation packages for neurosurgeons in your region to establish a benchmark for negotiations.

You can emphasize your specialized skills, experience, and track record of success to demonstrate your value and justify higher compensation.

Apart from base salary, consider negotiating other benefits such as signing bonuses, relocation assistance, healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and flexible work arrangements.

Also Read: How to network for a job in 2023?

Continue Your Education and Professional Development


Staying abreast with the latest advancements in medical technologies is crucial for staying ahead of the competition and earning higher pay.

Invest time in continuing education courses, conferences, and workshops to enhance your knowledge and skills. This can contribute to your expertise and make you more marketable, potentially leading to higher-paying opportunities.

Consider acquiring additional certifications or pursuing subspecialties within neurosurgery to enhance your professional profile and increase your earning potential.

Also Read: How to list certifications on a resume in 2023?

Explore Alternative Career Paths


Review opportunities in academic institutions or research organizations, where you can combine clinical work with teaching or research. These positions often offer competitive salaries and additional perks.

You can also explore partnerships with medical device companies, pharmaceutical companies, or healthcare consulting firms.

These collaborations can provide additional income streams and unique career opportunities.

Remember that maximizing your neurosurgeon salary requires a proactive approach, continuous self-improvement, and strategic decision-making.

Stay engaged with professional networks, seek mentorship, and adapt to the evolving landscape of healthcare to position yourself for higher earning potential in the field of neurosurgery.

Also Read: How and when should you ask for a raise in salary at work?

FAQs on Neurosurgeon Salary


  • What is the average neurosurgeon salary in California?

The average salary of a Neurosurgeon in California is approximately $697,000 per year.

  • What is a pediatric neurosurgeon's salary?

On average, pediatric neurosurgeons in the United States can earn a salary ranging from $300,000 to $750,000 per year.

  • What is a neurosurgeon’s salary per hour?

The average hourly wage for a Neurosurgeon in the United States ranges from $196 to $293. However, it's important to note that many neurosurgeons are typically paid on an annual salary basis rather than an hourly rate.

  • What is the salary of a Neurosurgeon in India?

On average, a neurosurgeon in India can earn between INR 15 lakh to INR 50 lakh per year.

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