How Much Do Chiropractors Make?

Chiropractors in the United States earn an average annual salary of $89,760, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 41,000 professionals employed in this field, chiropractic care continues to be a sought-after health care service.

These skilled practitioners focus on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, primarily through manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. Chiropractors play a vital role in helping patients manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance their overall well-being without relying on medication or surgery. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the chiropractic profession, exploring how salaries and employment opportunities vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare chiropractors' earnings to those of similar health care professionals, providing valuable insights for anyone considering a career in this rewarding field or looking to understand the financial prospects of chiropractic care.  

Highest Paying States for Chiropractors

Chiropractors seeking the highest salaries in the U.S. may want to consider relocating to Alaska, Arkansas, or Nevada. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these states offer the most lucrative compensation for chiropractors.

- **Alaska** stands out with the highest average annual mean salary of $134,020 and an hourly mean wage of $64.43. Although it employs only 110 chiropractors, the compensation reflects the state's higher cost of living and demand for specialized health care professionals.
- **Arkansas** follows with an average annual salary of $110,110 and an hourly wage of $52.94, employing 180 chiropractors. This suggests a competitive market for chiropractic services in the state.
- **Nevada** offers an average annual salary of $107,920 and an hourly wage of $51.89, with 210 chiropractors employed. The state's thriving tourism industry may contribute to the need for chiropractic care.

Other states with notable salaries include Oklahoma and New Jersey, offering average annual salaries of $103,330 and $102,500, respectively. These regions not only provide competitive pay but also have a considerable number of employment opportunities for chiropractors.

Comparing Salaries: Chiropractors vs. Acupuncturists

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, chiropractors and acupuncturists earn competitive salaries in the health care field. Chiropractors, who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal health issues, have an average annual salary of $89,760. This translates to an average hourly wage of $43.15. The profession employs 41,480 people nationwide, reflecting a significant presence in the health care sector.

On the other hand, acupuncturists, who use traditional Chinese medicine techniques to treat a variety of health conditions, earn a slightly lower average annual salary of $84,260, with an hourly wage of $40.51. The field of acupuncture is smaller, with a total employment figure of 9,370. While both professions offer rewarding salaries, chiropractors tend to earn more on average compared to their acupuncturist counterparts.  

Bottom Line

Chiropractors in the U.S. enjoy rewarding careers with an average annual salary of $89,760. This profession, which employs over 41,000 practitioners, plays a crucial role in the health care sector by addressing neuromuscular disorders through non-invasive methods. Aspiring chiropractors can expect a promising financial future, especially when considering the opportunities in states like Alaska, Arkansas, and Nevada, where salaries exceed the national average.

Additionally, when comparing to similar professions, chiropractors generally earn more than acupuncturists, who make an average of $84,260 annually. For those considering a career in chiropractic care, the financial prospects are attractive, particularly in high-demand regions. Key takeaways include:

- **High-Earning States:** Alaska, Arkansas, and Nevada offer the highest salaries for chiropractors.
- **Financial Comparison:** Chiropractors typically earn more than acupuncturists.
- **Career Viability:** With a substantial number of employment opportunities, chiropractic care remains a sought-after field in the health care industry.