Orthopedic Surgeon Salary Guide

Orthopedic surgeons (excluding pediatric surgeons) made an annual wage of $365,060 in 2024, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

That being said, full-time orthopedic surgeons surveyed in Doximity’s “Physician Compensation Report 2024” reported an average annual compensation of $654,815.

It’s difficult to put an exact figure on locum tenens orthopedic surgeon salaries, 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 orthopedic surgeons 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. Paid time off and insurance may be reflected in the perm orthopedic surgeon salary structure, but locum tenens providers do have options when it comes to health insurance.

Orthopedic surgeon salary fluctuates depending on the state—according to the BLS, these are the five states with the highest annual average wage for orthopedic surgeons in 2024:

• Arkansas
• Georgia
• Maryland
• Mississippi
• Montana

Orthopedic surgeons are the third highest-paid physicians in the United States, according to Doximity’s “Physician Compensation Report 2024.”

The only other specialties that make a higher average annual compensation are thoracic surgeons ($720,634) and neurosurgeons ($763,908).