How Much Do Podiatrists Make?

Podiatrists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $162,520, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With nearly 9,500 professionals employed in this specialized field of health care, podiatry offers both attractive compensation and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients' lives.

These foot and ankle experts play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and mobility for people of all ages. Podiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from common issues like ingrown toenails to complex problems involving the bones, muscles, and nerves of the lower extremities. In this article, we'll step into the world of podiatry, exploring how salaries and job prospects vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare podiatrists' earnings to those of other medical professionals, giving you a well-rounded view of this rewarding career path. Whether you're considering a future in podiatry or simply curious about the field, we've got you covered from heel to toe.

Highest Paying States for Podiatrists

Podiatrists, who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of foot-related ailments, can find varying compensation across the United States. According to the latest data, several states stand out for offering the highest salaries in this field.

• Maryland leads the list with an impressive average annual salary of $239,460 and an hourly mean wage of $115.12. The state employs around 320 podiatrists.
• Minnesota follows closely with an average annual salary of $229,120 and an hourly wage of $110.15, employing 170 podiatrists.
• New Hampshire offers an average annual salary of $226,590 and an hourly wage of $108.94, though it has a smaller employment figure with 70 podiatrists.

Other states offering competitive salaries include:

• Hawaii, with an average annual salary of $220,700 and an hourly wage of $106.11, albeit with a smaller workforce of 30 podiatrists.
• North Carolina provides an average annual salary of $207,300 and an hourly mean of $99.66, employing 240 professionals in this field.

These figures highlight the states where podiatrists can expect to earn top dollar, with Maryland and Minnesota notably offering salaries well above the national average. For podiatrists considering relocation for better compensation, these states represent promising opportunities.

Comparing Salaries Among Foot and Spine Specialists

When examining the earnings of different specialists in foot and spine care, orthopedic surgeons stand out with the highest average annual salary of $378,250, translating to an average hourly wage of $181.85. This reflects their specialized skills in treating complex bone and joint issues. In contrast, podiatrists, who focus specifically on foot and ankle care, earn an average annual salary of $162,520, which amounts to about $78.14 per hour. While they earn significantly less than orthopedic surgeons, their expertise remains crucial for treating foot-related conditions.

Chiropractors, who often help with spine alignment and musculoskeletal problems, have an average annual salary of $89,760, equating to about $43.15 per hour. Despite earning less than both orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists, chiropractors play an important role in non-invasive treatment options for back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. Employment numbers also show that there are significantly more chiropractors, with 41,480 employed, compared to 9,470 podiatrists and 14,820 orthopedic surgeons. This difference highlights the varying demand and accessibility of these professions.

Bottom Line

Choosing a career in podiatry offers both financial and personal fulfillment. As a podiatrist, you can expect an average annual salary of $162,520, with opportunities to earn even more in certain states like Maryland and Minnesota, where salaries significantly exceed the national average. This specialized field of health care allows you to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives by diagnosing and treating a variety of foot and ankle conditions.

While podiatrists earn less than orthopedic surgeons, who command the highest salaries in the foot and spine care spectrum, the role remains crucial and rewarding. Compared to chiropractors, podiatrists enjoy higher compensation, reflecting the specific expertise required in foot care. If you're considering entering the field, remember:

• High Earning Potential: Especially in states like Maryland and Minnesota.
• Significant Impact: Play a vital role in maintaining patients' mobility and overall health.
• Career Satisfaction: Engage in a specialized practice with rewarding patient outcomes.

For those drawn to a career that combines health care expertise with patient care, podiatry offers a fulfilling path.