Last Updated on October 21, 2025 by mcelik
Pediatric trauma specialists earn a lot, showing how complex and risky their job is.
By August 2025, the average surgeon’s salary in the U.S. is $277,011. This shows the financial benefits of this challenging field.
Many things affect their pay, like their skill, the urgency of their work, and where they work. Places like LivHospital are among the best.
Key Takeaways
- The average annual salary for pediatric trauma specialists is $277,011 as of August 2025.
- Their compensation reflects the complexity and high-stakes nature of their work.
- Top healthcare settings contribute to the financial rewards for these specialists.
- Expertise and demand play a significant role in determining their earnings.
- The specialty is highly competitive, influencing salary expectations.
The Current Landscape of Pediatric Trauma Surgeon Salary
To understand pediatric trauma surgeon salaries, we look at national averages, regional differences, and experience. Pediatric surgery is complex and urgent. This complexity affects how much they are paid.
Average National Compensation Figures
The average salary for a pediatric trauma surgeon is about $277,011, surveys show. But, salaries can vary from $285,176 to $488,495. This range shows how salaries change based on location, experience, and employer.
Pediatric surgical compensation also depends on the need for skilled surgeons and their training costs.
Salary Range from Entry-Level to Top Earners
Starting pediatric trauma surgeons earn around $250,000. Top earners can make $400,000 or more. Their salary growth depends on extra training, pediatric surgery training programs, and leadership roles.
As surgeons gain experience and reputation, their pay goes up. This shows their importance in healthcare.
Factors Influencing Pediatric Trauma Surgeon Compensation
It’s important to know what affects pediatric trauma surgeon salaries. These doctors earn based on several factors.
Geographic Location and Regional Variations
Where you work greatly affects your salary. The cost of living, demand for surgeons, and healthcare policies vary by region.
Urban areas usually pay more than rural ones. Data shows that pediatric surgeons in cities earn more than those in smaller towns.
Experience and Seniority Impact
Experience and seniority matter a lot. As surgeons get more experience and build their reputation, they earn more.
- New surgeons start with lower pay.
- Mid-career surgeons see a big pay increase.
- Senior surgeons and leaders earn the most.
Subspecialty Focus and Additional Certifications
Surgeons with extra training or certifications can earn more. Specialized skills in pediatric surgery often mean higher pay.
The 2023 MGMA report shows pediatric surgeons earn over $650,000 on average. This highlights the benefits of advanced training and certifications.
Comparing Pediatric Trauma Surgeon Salaries by Region
Where you live greatly affects how much pediatric trauma surgeons earn. Salaries vary due to living costs, demand for doctors, and local healthcare rules.
Highest-Paying States and Metropolitan Areas
Some places pay more for pediatric trauma surgeons. For example, California and New York have higher costs of living. So, they pay more to help doctors afford to live there. Cities like San Francisco and New York City also pay well.
Cost of Living Adjustments and Real Income
It’s important to look at real income, not just what doctors are paid. Adjusting for living costs gives a clearer view of what doctors can buy. Even if salaries are lower in some places, doctors can have a good life there.
Pediatric Trauma Surgeon Salary Compared to Other Medical Specialties
Pediatric trauma surgeon salary earn a lot. Their pay depends on their training, the risk of their job, and how much they’re needed.
Ranking Among Surgical Specialties
Pediatric surgery is among the top-paid surgical fields. Median salaries for pediatric surgeons range from $285,176 to $488,495. This makes them among the highest earners in surgery, alongside cardiothoracic and neurosurgeons.
“The pay for pediatric surgeons shows their advanced training and the complex care they give,” says a recent report. The report notes that pediatric surgical pay is competitive because of the high skill needed and the critical nature of their work.
Comparison to General Pediatric Practitioners
Pediatric trauma surgeons earn more than general pediatricians. General pediatricians are important but earn less. Pediatric trauma surgeons get extra training, which justifies their higher pay.
- Pediatric surgeons often earn salaries at the higher end of the medical specialist earnings scale.
- Their compensation reflects the high-stakes, complex nature of their work.
- Surgeon salary expectations for pediatric trauma surgeons are influenced by their specialized skills and the demand for their services.
As medical specialist earnings change, pediatric trauma surgeons remain among the highest-paid. Their pay shows the value they bring to healthcare and their critical role in saving lives.
Salary Data Sources and Industry Reports
Industry reports and salary data give us key insights into what pediatric trauma surgeons earn. They help us see how salaries change and what affects them.
MGMA Report Findings and $650,000 Median Compensation
The 2023 MGMA report shows that pediatric surgeons earn over $650,000 on average. This shows how much they can make in this field. The report says their pay reflects the tough and complex work they do.
Key findings from the MGMA report include:
- Median compensation over $650,000 for pediatric surgeons
- Variations in salary based on factors like geographic location and experience
- Trends indicating a competitive compensation package for pediatric trauma surgeons
Bureau of Labour Statistics Data on Surgical Specialties
The Bureau of Labour Statistics has data on surgical specialties, including pediatric trauma surgery. Even though they don’t have specific figures for pediatric trauma surgeons, their data on surgical specialties is helpful.
“The Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates a steady growth in salaries for surgical specialties, reflecting the increasing demand and complexity of surgical care.”
Medical Recruitment Firms and Salary Surveys
Medical recruitment firms do salary surveys that give us detailed information on pediatric trauma surgeon pay. These surveys cover base salaries, bonuses, and other benefits.
For instance, the UTMB benefit package offers great health insurance and paid vacation, adding to their pay.
Looking at these reports and data, we can understand what affects pediatric trauma surgeon salaries. We also see the current trends in their pay.
Career Progression and Long-term Earnings
Pediatric trauma surgeons see their earnings grow as they move up in their careers. They also feel more fulfilled in their work. Their pay packages get better as they become more experienced.
Early Career to Established Practitioner Trajectory
At the start of their careers, pediatric trauma surgeons earn based on their training and experience. As they gain more experience and build their reputation, their pay goes up. Reports from the MGMA show that pediatric surgeons can earn around $650,000 on average. The salary increase often comes with more benefits and chances for growth.
“The financial rewards for pediatric trauma surgeons are substantial, but so are the personal and professional rewards,” notes a recent industry report. This journey is not just about money. It’s also about the positive impact these surgeons have on their patients and the medical field.
Leadership Positions and Administrative Roles
As pediatric trauma surgeons move up, they often become leaders or take on administrative roles. These roles come with higher pay and the chance to shape healthcare policies. Leadership positions can include department heads, division chiefs, or even hospital administrators. These roles have more responsibilities but also offer greater rewards, both financially and personally.
The benefits of career growth for pediatric trauma surgeons are many. They include financial gains, professional development, and the chance to make a big difference in their field. As they advance, they not only earn more but also contribute more to the medical profession.
Conclusion: The Value and Future Outlook for Pediatric Trauma Surgeons
Pediatric trauma surgeons are highly valued for their critical work. Their salaries show this, with an average salary that reflects their expertise and role complexity.
Reports from the MGMA and the Bureau of Labour Statistics highlight their high income. LivHospital’s focus on excellence in pediatric surgery shows the high standards of this field.
The future looks bright for pediatric trauma surgeons. Their earnings are expected to stay competitive. The healthcare world’s changes will keep the demand for their skills high.
Their salaries not only show their expertise but also the importance of their work. They save lives and improve patient outcomes.
FAQ’s:
What is the average annual salary for a pediatric trauma surgeon in the United States?
Pediatric trauma surgeons in the U.S. earn about $650,000 a year. This is based on a report by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA).
How does geographic location impact pediatric trauma surgeon salaries?
Where you work greatly affects how much you earn. California, New York, and Texas pay the most. Cities like New York City and Los Angeles also offer better pay.
What factors contribute to the variations in pediatric trauma surgeon salaries?
Several things affect how much pediatric trauma surgeons make. These include their experience, what they specialize in, any extra certifications, and where they work.
How do pediatric trauma surgeon salaries compare to those of other surgical specialties?
Pediatric trauma surgeons earn well, ranking high among surgeons. They are among the top earners in medicine.
What is the long-term earning capacity for pediatric trauma surgeons?
Over time, pediatric trauma surgeons can earn a lot. They can move into leadership roles or administrative jobs, which can increase their pay.
How does the cost of living impact the real income of pediatric trauma surgeons?
It’s important to consider the cost of living when looking at pediatric trauma surgeon salaries. A high salary in a big city might not go as far as a lower salary in a less expensive area.
What sources provide reliable data on pediatric trauma surgeon salaries?
You can find reliable salary data from the MGMA report, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and medical recruitment firms. They often conduct salary surveys.
How does experience impact pediatric trauma surgeon salaries?
Experience plays a big role in how much pediatric trauma surgeons earn. More experienced surgeons get paid more.
What is the job outlook for pediatric trauma surgeons?
The job outlook for pediatric trauma surgeons is good. There’s a high demand for their skills, and their work is very important.
How do pediatric trauma surgeon salaries compare to those of general pediatric practitioners?
Pediatric trauma surgeons earn much more than general pediatricians. This is because they have more advanced training and expertise.
Reference:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational outlook for surgeons and physicians. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm
- AMN Healthcare. (2025, September 1). Surgeon salaries by specialty in 2025. Retrieved from https://www.amnhealthcare.com/blog/physician/perm/surgeon-salaries-by-specialty-in-2025/
- ZipRecruiter. (2025). Pediatric surgeons’ salaries in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Pediatric-Surgeons-Salary
