Neurosurgeon Salary Guide
Have you ever wondered what the average neurosurgeon salary is? Understanding compensation in this field is key for career planning, job negotiations, and financial decisions.
Our comprehensive neurosurgeon salary guide explores:
- Neurosurgeon Salary
- Neurosurgeon Salary by State
- How a Neurosurgeon’s Salary Compares Against Other Physician Specialties
Looking for neurosurgeon jobs? Check out our exclusive locum tenens neurosurgeon opportunities and apply today.
How much do neurosurgeons make?
Neurosurgeons make an average annual compensation of $763,908, according to Doximity’s “Physician Compensation Report 2024.” This report surveyed full-time doctors.
That being said, the average annual wage in 2024 for all surgeons (excluding pediatric and orthopedic surgeons) was $371,280 in the U.S., according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
What’s a typical locum tenens neurosurgeon salary?
It’s difficult to put an exact figure on locum tenens neurosurgeon pay rate, as there are many factors that impact rates including location, years of experience, and the level of demand.
While perm surgeons are more likely to be salaried, locum tenens surgeons are independent contractors earning an hourly rate, which can vary based on which assignments they take in a year.
Furthermore, because locum tenens neurosurgeons are paid by the hour, the hours they work are directly reflected in their pay, while a salaried surgeon’s additional hours may not be reflected in their salary. Finally, paid time off and insurance may be reflected in the perm neurosurgeon salary structure, but locum tenens providers do have options when it comes to health insurance.
How does a neurosurgeon's salary compare against other physician specialties?
Neurosurgeons are the highest-paid physicians in the United States, according to Doximity’s “Physician Compensation Report 2024.”
Right behind neurosurgery is thoracic surgery, orthopedic surgery, and plastic surgery—each making over $600,000 in average annual compensation.
Explore Our Open Neurosurgeon Jobs
Physician - Neurological Surgeon
We are seeking a Neurological Surgeon for a 53-day locum tenens assignment in Georgia, beginning Sep 19, 2025. This critical role involves 24-hour call shifts, ranging from 3 to 10 days, with responsibilities including rounding on patients and managing emergency neurosurgical cases. The successful candidate will utilize the Meditech EHR... View This Job
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Neurosurgeon FAQs
Apply to Our Open Neurosurgeon Jobs
Find Locum Tenens Neurosurgery Jobs with Barton
Barton coordinates your job search from start to finish!
TALK WITH A REP
We’ll schedule a phone consultation with a Barton Associates team member to discuss your interests, goals, and work history in order to get a sense of what you’re looking for in your next job.
Your Barton team will then go to work, compiling a list of open jobs in our extensive network that match your interests and skill set.
REVIEW YOUR OPTIONS
Once you’ve had a chance to evaluate your list of opportunities, your Barton rep will submit your information to facility you want to take an assignment at.
If there’s a match, we’ll work with the client manager on next steps.
START YOUR JOB!
Don’t worry! Barton Associates will handle licensing, credentialing, and travel arrangements before you arrive.
Your Barton rep will also work with your new facility to ensure you’re set up and ready to go on day one.