How Much Does a Teacher Make a Year?

The most recent mean annual salary for teachers nationwide is $66,450, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, there can be considerable variation depending on where a person lives, what level of student they teach, how much experience they have, and other factors.

Working as a teacher comes with an equal set of challenges and rewards. Being able to help shape young minds can be very fulfilling as well as challenging.

Want to learn more about how much teachers make and what the role entails? Read on for more insight.

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What Are Teachers?

Working as a teacher can look a bit different depending on whether the teacher works in an elementary, middle, or high school setting. That being said, all teachers create lesson plans and deliver those lessons to their students. They often work individually with students who need a bit of extra support and can help foster social and emotional development. Alongside instructing pupils, they grade assignments, write report cards, and meet with parents to help them understand their child’s education progress.

Teaching may not be the right career for those who are introverts. It typically involves interacting with students, their parents, and other faculty members for much of the workday.

Worth noting: Qualifications for teaching can vary. Teachers may be required to have certificates in order to teach, which can mean time, energy, and expense to attain those credentials.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Teachers Make a Year?

Like many chosen career paths, working as an entry-level teacher often comes with a lower salary. How much money might a teacher make a year when they are first starting out? The mean salary for the lowest 10% of earners in this role nationwide is $30,230.

Incidentally, some teachers do rise to earn six figures. As teachers gain years of experience, they can increase their salary (the top 10% of earners make $102,800 per year).

What is the Average Salary for a Teacher?

Regarding how much a teacher can expect to earn on average, as briefly noted earlier, the national mean is $66,450. That being said, the state you work in can greatly impact how much they earn. Cost of living and other factors are responsible for the variation in salaries, which can be significant. For example:

•   The average annual salary in Florida is $32,088.

•   In Oregon, the average is $52,816.

Prospective teachers can review the following chart to learn more about what their salary and hourly wage expectations should be in their state.

What is the Average Teacher Salary by State for 2023

State Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
Oregon $52,816 $4,401 $1,015 $25.39
Alaska $52,647 $4,387 $1,012 $25.31
North Dakota $52,570 $4,380 $1,010 $25.27
Massachusetts $52,116 $4,343 $1,002 $25.06
Hawaii $51,472 $4,289 $989 $24.75
Washington $50,724 $4,227 $975 $24.39
Nevada $49,778 $4,148 $957 $23.93
South Dakota $49,685 $4,140 $955 $23.89
Colorado $49,299 $4,108 $948 $23.70
Rhode Island $48,919 $4,076 $940 $23.52
Mississippi $47,737 $3,978 $918 $22.95
New York $47,209 $3,934 $907 $22.70
Delaware $46,389 $3,865 $892 $22.30
Vermont $46,082 $3,840 $886 $22.15
Virginia $45,736 $3,811 $879 $21.99
Illinois $45,640 $3,803 $877 $21.94
Maryland $44,930 $3,744 $864 $21.60
Kansas $44,913 $3,742 $863 $21.59
Nebraska $43,985 $3,665 $845 $21.15
California $43,746 $3,645 $841 $21.03
Missouri $43,676 $3,639 $839 $21.00
South Carolina $43,292 $3,607 $832 $20.81
Pennsylvania $43,247 $3,603 $831 $20.79
New Jersey $43,214 $3,601 $831 $20.78
Wisconsin $42,811 $3,567 $823 $20.58
Maine $42,741 $3,561 $821 $20.55
Oklahoma $42,596 $3,549 $819 $20.48
North Carolina $42,399 $3,533 $815 $20.38
New Hampshire $42,049 $3,504 $808 $20.22
Idaho $41,837 $3,486 $804 $20.11
Texas $41,544 $3,462 $798 $19.97
Wyoming $41,397 $3,449 $796 $19.90
Minnesota $41,366 $3,447 $795 $19.89
Kentucky $41,187 $3,432 $792 $19.80
New Mexico $41,116 $3,426 $790 $19.77
Indiana $40,861 $3,405 $785 $19.64
Michigan $40,815 $3,401 $784 $19.62
Ohio $40,205 $3,350 $773 $19.33
Arizona $40,016 $3,334 $769 $19.24
Connecticut $39,902 $3,325 $767 $19.18
Iowa $39,557 $3,296 $760 $19.02
Montana $39,413 $3,284 $757 $18.95
Arkansas $38,945 $3,245 $748 $18.72
Alabama $38,921 $3,243 $748 $18.71
Utah $38,419 $3,201 $738 $18.47
Tennessee $38,383 $3,198 $738 $18.45
Georgia $36,258 $3,021 $697 $17.43
Louisiana $36,117 $3,009 $694 $17.36
West Virginia $33,400 $2,783 $642 $16.06
Florida $32,088 $2,674 $617 $15.43

Source: ZipRecruiter

Recommended: What Trade Makes the Most Money?

Teacher Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

How much a teacher earns and what type of benefits they qualify for can depend on if they choose to work as a full-time teacher or as a substitute teacher. If someone works as a substitute, they are generally paid a day rate only for the days they work and don’t qualify for benefits like health care or retirement plans.

However, working as a substitute teacher can be a great job for retirees looking to earn a bit of extra cash without committing to a consistent part-time work schedule. It might be good for someone who has a side hustle going or can fill in free days with work as, say, a rideshare driver or babysitter.

Full-time teachers generally qualify for those benefits and other traditional employee benefits like paid time off for sick and personal days. Some may even still qualify for pensions, which can be a real plus when it comes to retirement planning.

There’s also the fact that school is out in the summer. Some teachers may love this time off and want that family time. Others may choose to teach summer school or at a camp or otherwise bring in extra income. Still others may use that time for creative or entrepreneurial projects, but it’s important to note whether or not you will receive a paycheck during those months.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Teacher Salary

Still on the fence about becoming a teacher? These are some of the common pros and cons associated with the salary.

Pros Cons
Full-time salaries available May not receive pay during summer or holiday breaks
Compensation package often includes benefits

Recommended: How to Negotiate for Competitive Pay

The Takeaway

The average teacher salary in the US tops $66,000. If someone has a passion for teaching and likes working with young people, they will likely love their job. There are also valuable benefits that may be available, such as paid vacations and summers off.

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FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a teacher?

It is possible to make $100,000 a year as a teacher, which is a good salary. The 90th percentile of earners in this role nationwide brings home $102,800 annually. Teachers tend to see higher salaries as they gain years of work experience.

Do people like being a teacher?

Working as a teacher can be very hard work, but it is often very rewarding. Those who enjoy working with children and helping them learn will find they get a lot out of being a teacher. However, if they consider themselves to be antisocial, they may find this role very draining.

Is it hard to get hired as a teacher?

How challenging it is to get hired as a teacher can vary by location and year. It simply depends on what the current demand for teachers is. It is generally harder to find a role as a public school teacher as those jobs require having specific advanced degrees.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/baona

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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How Much Does a Sonographer Make a Year?

The median annual pay for a sonographer is $78,210 annually for the most recent year studied, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Working as a sonographer is a great way to enter the medical field without having to pursue an expensive advanced degree. Typically, only an associate’s degree is needed to work as a sonographer, which can be obtained quickly and affordably.

Read on to learn more about how much a sonographer can earn and what it’s like to work as this kind of professional.

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What Are Sonographers?

A sonographer — also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer — uses sonography technology and tools to create images typically known as ultrasounds or sonograms. These images can give us a detailed look at organs and tissues within the body or of embryos and fetuses. There are many different types of sonographers who specialize in distinct areas of medicine, such as:

•   Abdominal sonographers

•   Breast sonographers

•   Cardiac sonographers (echocardiographers)

•   Musculoskeletal sonographers

•   Pediatric sonographers

•   Obstetric and gynecologic sonographers

•   Vascular technologists (vascular sonographers).

As briefly mentioned above, training for this career usually doesn’t involve medical school and its cost. Instead, diagnostic medical sonographers may obtain a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree, or perhaps a vocational school degree or hospital training program certificate. Some may be trained in the Armed Forces.

It’s also worth noting that working as a sonographer will likely involve a high degree of patient interaction. For this reason, it may not be a good job for introverts.


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How Much Do Starting Sonographers Make a Year?

Entry-level sonographers should expect their salary to be on the lower side until they gain more experience. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $61,430 per year.

However, the top 10% of earners working as sonographers make more than $107,730, meaning this is a career path that can lead to a job that pays $100,000 a year.

In addition to experience level, other aspects that can lead to competitive pay is your geographical location (big city vs. rural community) and whether the employer is a major hospital network, say, or a small, independent medical office.

Recommended: What Trade Earns the Most Money?

What is the Average Salary for a Sonographer?

Those who work full-time as a sonographer can expect to earn a median annual salary of $78,210. However, some sonographers choose to work part-time and are paid by the hour. In terms of how much a sonographer makes an hour, the median hourly pay for sonography work is $37.60 per hour.

Many factors can influence how much a sonographer earns and the state they work in is a major one. The following table illustrates how average sonographer salaries can vary significantly by state, with earnings shown from highest to lowest.

What is the Average Sonographer Salary by State for 2023

State Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
New York $130,753 $10,896 $2,514 $62.86
Pennsylvania $119,728 $9,977 $2,302 $57.56
New Hampshire $117,077 $9,756 $2,251 $56.29
New Jersey $115,302 $9,608 $2,217 $55.43
Wyoming $114,058 $9,504 $2,193 $54.84
Washington $113,902 $9,491 $2,190 $54.76
Wisconsin $113,086 $9,423 $2,174 $54.37
Massachusetts $113,082 $9,423 $2,174 $54.37
Alaska $112,787 $9,398 $2,168 $54.22
Oregon $111,873 $9,322 $2,151 $53.79
Indiana $111,695 $9,307 $2,147 $53.70
North Dakota $111,668 $9,305 $2,147 $53.69
Hawaii $109,499 $9,124 $2,105 $52.64
Arizona $109,385 $9,115 $2,103 $52.59
New Mexico $108,705 $9,058 $2,090 $52.26
Colorado $107,986 $8,998 $2,076 $51.92
Minnesota $107,959 $8,996 $2,076 $51.90
Montana $107,737 $8,978 $2,071 $51.80
Nevada $106,643 $8,886 $2,050 $51.27
Alabama $106,391 $8,865 $2,045 $51.15
South Dakota $105,538 $8,794 $2,029 $50.74
Vermont $105,369 $8,780 $2,026 $50.66
Ohio $105,308 $8,775 $2,025 $50.63
Rhode Island $103,621 $8,635 $1,992 $49.82
Iowa $102,378 $8,531 $1,968 $49.22
Delaware $102,241 $8,520 $1,966 $49.15
Connecticut $102,051 $8,504 $1,962 $49.06
Virginia $101,059 $8,421 $1,943 $48.59
Mississippi $100,644 $8,387 $1,935 $48.39
Tennessee $100,545 $8,378 $1,933 $48.34
Utah $100,028 $8,335 $1,923 $48.09
Illinois $99,727 $8,310 $1,917 $47.95
Georgia $99,110 $8,259 $1,905 $47.65
Maryland $99,089 $8,257 $1,905 $47.64
California $98,791 $8,232 $1,899 $47.50
Nebraska $97,188 $8,099 $1,869 $46.73
Maine $96,740 $8,061 $1,860 $46.51
Missouri $96,025 $8,002 $1,846 $46.17
South Carolina $95,081 $7,923 $1,828 $45.71
Kansas $94,735 $7,894 $1,821 $45.55
Idaho $94,316 $7,859 $1,813 $45.34
Louisiana $94,256 $7,854 $1,812 $45.32
Oklahoma $94,119 $7,843 $1,809 $45.25
Texas $93,511 $7,792 $1,798 $44.96
North Carolina $93,119 $7,759 $1,790 $44.77
West Virginia $92,468 $7,705 $1,778 $44.46
Kentucky $89,668 $7,472 $1,724 $43.11
Michigan $89,461 $7,455 $1,720 $43.01
Florida $87,711 $7,309 $1,686 $42.17
Arkansas $85,099 $7,091 $1,636 $40.91

Source: ZipRecruiter

Sonographer Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

If a sonographer chooses to work part-time, they may not gain access to the same suite of valuable employee benefits that full-time sonographers typically earn. While employee benefits can vary by employer, full-time sonographers can generally expect to receive healthcare coverage, paid time off, and retirement plans as a part of their overall compensation package.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Sonographer Salary

One of the biggest pros associated with a sonographer’s salary is that they don’t have to take on expensive medical school debt — which can really eat into a worker’s monthly budget. An associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate may be required but will cost less than pursuing other degree requirements commonly found in the medical field.

Regarding cons, some may find the salary doesn’t outweigh the hardships of the job. Many sonographers work nights and weekends and are on their feet for long periods of time.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage

The Takeaway

Sonographers currently earn an average of $78,210 per year. They have a very valuable medical-service skill set, and demand for that skill is growing. It’s anticipated that job openings for this role will grow by 10% from 2022 to 2032, which is above the national average rate. As they navigate their careers, sonographers will likely want to make progress in their financial lives, with smart budgeting and saving.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a sonographer?

It is possible to earn $100,000 or more each year as a sonographer. On average, sonographers in the state of New York earn $130,753 per year. Where someone lives, how many years of experience they have, and their specialty can all impact how much they earn.

Do people like being a sonographer?

Working as a sonographer is a great fit for anyone who finds the work interesting and who enjoys patient interaction. Because this role requires so much patient care throughout the day, it’s not the best fit for those who are antisocial.

Is it hard to get hired as a sonographer?

Around 9,600 openings for diagnostic medical sonographers are anticipated to be available each year. Because of this high demand, if someone has the right education and qualifications, they should be able to find work as a sonographer.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/dusanpetkovic

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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How Much Does a Physician Assistant Make a Year?

The most recent median annual salary for physician assistants is $126,010 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is significantly more (about twice) the average pay of all jobs in the US.

Working as a physicians assistant can be a fulfilling way to have a career in the medical industry without having to spend as much time or money on school as a doctor. Like doctors, physician assistants stand to make a lot of money, but can save on tuition costs since they typically only need a master’s degree to work in this role.

Keep reading to learn more about what physician assistants do and how much money they make.

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What Are Physician Assistants?

A physician assistant is capable of performing a lot of tasks a medical doctor would perform, such as conducting patient examinations, diagnosing illnesses, and delivering treatments. They complete their work under physician supervision and their day-to-day responsibilities can include tasks like:

•   Obtaining and reviewing medical histories

•   Ordering diagnostic tests

•   Prescribing medications

•   Collaborating with healthcare teams.

A physician assistant can specialize in a specific healthcare field like primary care, emergency medicine, and psychiatry, which can affect their job responsibilities.

As mentioned above, these individuals typically have a master’s degree; this is usually a requirement for licensing. However, you don’t need to go to and pay for medical school.

Job opportunities are likely to be plentiful. The projected growth over 2022 to 2032 is 27%, which is very well above the single-digit average for most professions.


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How Much Do Starting Physician Assistants Make a Year?

Like any career, it takes time to earn a high salary when working as a physician assistant. When a physician assistant is entry-level, their salary may compare with the lowest 10% of earners in this role, who make $83,820 or less, but there is a lot of room for improvement here.

The highest 10% of earners make more than $168,120. In other words, it is indeed possible to earn $100,000 a year.

What is the Average Salary for a Physician Assistant?

The answer to the question—how much money does a physician assistant make—can vary depending on where a physician assistant works. Some jobs will pay more due to location. The following table illustrates the average salary for this role in each state and a quick glance makes it clear there is a lot of variance in pay by state. For example, a physician assistant in New York makes $44,095 more on average than someone in this role in Florida, which is quite a gap.

Below, this table shares how much a physician assistant job pays both by state and by different rates, including hourly pay, from highest to lowest.

Recommended: Best Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

What Is the Average Physician Assistant Salary by State for 2023

State Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly
New York $135,153 $11,262 $2,599 $64.98
Vermont $132,952 $11,079 $2,556 $63.92
Maine $127,291 $10,607 $2,447 $61.20
Pennsylvania $123,776 $10,314 $2,380 $59.51
Washington $123,029 $10,252 $2,365 $59.15
Massachusetts $121,192 $10,099 $2,330 $58.27
New Hampshire $120,808 $10,067 $2,323 $58.08
New Jersey $120,671 $10,055 $2,320 $58.02
Alaska $120,511 $10,042 $2,317 $57.94
Oregon $119,212 $9,934 $2,292 $57.31
North Dakota $119,074 $9,922 $2,289 $57.25
Wisconsin $118,753 $9,896 $2,283 $57.09
Wyoming $118,099 $9,841 $2,271 $56.78
Hawaii $116,804 $9,733 $2,246 $56.16
Colorado $115,983 $9,665 $2,230 $55.76
Indiana $115,955 $9,662 $2,229 $55.75
New Mexico $114,119 $9,509 $2,194 $54.86
Nevada $113,947 $9,495 $2,191 $54.78
Minnesota $113,836 $9,486 $2,189 $54.73
Arizona $113,557 $9,463 $2,183 $54.59
South Dakota $112,537 $9,378 $2,164 $54.10
Montana $111,846 $9,320 $2,150 $53.77
Ohio $110,903 $9,241 $2,132 $53.32
Alabama $110,449 $9,204 $2,124 $53.10
Rhode Island $110,419 $9,201 $2,123 $53.09
Delaware $109,969 $9,164 $2,114 $52.87
Virginia $108,760 $9,063 $2,091 $52.29
Connecticut $108,357 $9,029 $2,083 $52.10
Iowa $108,260 $9,021 $2,081 $52.05
Mississippi $107,125 $8,927 $2,060 $51.50
Illinois $107,052 $8,921 $2,058 $51.47
California $106,842 $8,903 $2,054 $51.37
Maryland $106,595 $8,882 $2,049 $51.25
Tennessee $105,885 $8,823 $2,036 $50.91
Utah $105,559 $8,796 $2,029 $50.75
Nebraska $104,594 $8,716 $2,011 $50.29
Missouri $103,224 $8,602 $1,985 $49.63
Georgia $102,891 $8,574 $1,978 $49.47
South Carolina $102,185 $8,515 $1,965 $49.13
1Idaho $101,964 $8,497 $1,960 $49.02
Oklahoma $101,291 $8,440 $1,947 $48.70
Texas $101,057 $8,421 $1,943 $48.59
Kansas $100,847 $8,403 $1,939 $48.48
North Carolina $100,075 $8,339 $1,924 $48.11
Louisiana $99,387 $8,282 $1,911 $47.78
Kentucky $96,173 $8,014 $1,849 $46.24
Michigan $96,099 $8,008 $1,848 $46.20
West Virginia $95,594 $7,966 $1,838 $45.96
Arkansas $91,350 $7,612 $1,756 $43.92
Florida $91,058 $7,588 $1,751 $43.78

Source: Ziprecruiter

Physician Assistant Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

It’s very common to work full-time as a physician assistant, which typically means that in addition to competitive pay, these professionals gain access to employer-sponsored benefits.

These may include:

•   Health insurance

•   Retirement plans

•   Paid sick days

•   Paid vacation

The tradeoff for a great compensation package can be having to work long hours or be on call. In addition, you may be exposed to medical emergencies, which can be stressful, and germs.

In addition, a career as a physician assistant requires much interaction with patients and the other members of the medical team. For this reason, it may not be a top choice as a job for antisocial people.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Physician Assistant Salary

The main advantage of a physician assistant salary is that it is well over the national average for all jobs, which is currently $59,384. As you see, a physician assistant can possibly make twice that amount.

This high take-home pay may make it easier to create and stick to a monthly budget.

The only real downside of this salary is that to earn it, a master’s degree is necessary which can lead to student loan debt.

Recommended: How to Calculate Your Net Worth

The Takeaway

Building a career as a physician assistant can lead to making a high salary of $125,000-plus on average, or more than $168,120 for the top 10% of earners in this role. Many find this career path preferable to becoming a doctor as it requires spending a lot less time in school and the degree requirements come with a much lower sticker price. It’s also a fulfilling role for those who enjoy helping others.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a physician assistant?

It is very possible to earn $100,000 a year or more as a physician assistant. The median annual salary for this job is $126,010, and only the bottom 10% of earners in this specific role make less than $83,820.

Do people like being a physician assistant?

Those who are passionate about the medical field and who enjoy working with people tend to get a lot of job satisfaction from working as a physician assistant. However, an introvert may dislike how social this job requires them to be.

Is it hard to get hired as a physician assistant?

The good news for prospective physician assistants is that there are plenty of job openings to be found in this field, with a rapid growth of 27% from 2022 to 2032, and there is an average projection of approximately 12,200 job openings annually.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.



SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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How Much Does a Pediatrician Make a Year?

The median annual salary for pediatricians is $198,420, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are many different paths a doctor can take when it comes to choosing their medical specialty. Doctors who enjoy helping children feel their best and live healthy lives will likely find a lot of fulfillment in their jobs.

To learn more about how much a pediatrician makes a year, keep reading.

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What Are Pediatricians?

A pediatrician is a type of doctor who provides medical care to children ranging from infancy to adolescence. They specialize in diagnosing and treating injuries, developmental issues, and illnesses children commonly experience. From routine exams to issuing vaccines to providing medicine to sick children, pediatricians can help.

The path to becoming a pediatrician can be a long and expensive one. Typically, that means college, medical school, a residency, and possibly a fellowship. Medical school can easily cost $250,000 in tuition. It’s wise to consider this investment when pursuing a career as a pediatrician. Many doctors have a high amount of medical school debt when starting out.

Also, keep in mind that being a pediatrician involves interacting with children and their families all day. This may not therefore be the best job for introverts.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Pediatricians Make a Year?

While pediatricians can eventually earn very competitive salaries, like any job, they tend to earn less when they are entry-level. The lowest 10% of earners in this role make just $75,670, which is significantly lower than the median annual salary for all physicians of $198,420.

What is the Average Salary for a Pediatrician?

On average, a pediatrician can make a salary that is considerably higher than the American average for all jobs. Where a pediatrician chooses to work can greatly impact how much a pediatrician earns. This is a quick glance at the annual mean wage for a variety of workplaces where a pediatrician may be employed:

•   Offices of physicians: $203,690

•   General medical and surgical hospitals: $180,790

•   Outpatient care centers: $232,420

•   Colleges, universities, and professional schools: $84,810

•   Specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals: $201,100.

Another factor that also affects pediatrician earning potential is the state the doctor works in. This table below highlights how average pediatrician salaries vary by state, with typical pay arranged from highest to lowest by location.

In addition, it shares how much a pediatrician’s hourly pay vs, salary is.

What is the Average Pediatrician Salary by State for 2023

State Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
Oregon $222,171 $18,514 $4,272 $106.81
Alaska $221,079 $18,423 $4,251 $106.29
North Dakota $221,044 $18,420 $4,250 $106.27
Massachusetts $218,405 $18,200 $4,200 $105.00
Hawaii $216,375 $18,031 $4,161 $104.03
Washington $211,404 $17,617 $4,065 $101.64
Nevada $209,030 $17,419 $4,019 $100.50
South Dakota $208,910 $17,409 $4,017 $100.44
Colorado $206,290 $17,190 $3,967 $99.18
Rhode Island $205,782 $17,148 $3,957 $98.93
New York $196,083 $16,340 $3,770 $94.27
Delaware $193,921 $16,160 $3,729 $93.23
Vermont $191,477 $15,956 $3,682 $92.06
Virginia $191,115 $15,926 $3,675 $91.88
Illinois $191,057 $15,921 $3,674 $91.85
Maryland $187,806 $15,650 $3,611 $90.29
Nebraska $183,797 $15,316 $3,534 $88.36
Missouri $182,659 $15,221 $3,512 $87.82
California $182,152 $15,179 $3,502 $87.57
South Carolina $181,082 $15,090 $3,482 $87.06
Pennsylvania $179,627 $14,968 $3,454 $86.36
New Jersey $179,258 $14,938 $3,447 $86.18
Oklahoma $177,994 $14,832 $3,422 $85.57
Maine $177,900 $14,825 $3,421 $85.53
Wisconsin $177,526 $14,793 $3,413 $85.35
North Carolina $177,345 $14,778 $3,410 $85.26
New Hampshire $174,681 $14,556 $3,359 $83.98
Idaho $174,250 $14,520 $3,350 $83.77
Texas $173,077 $14,423 $3,328 $83.21
Kentucky $172,518 $14,376 $3,317 $82.94
Wyoming $171,910 $14,325 $3,305 $82.65
Minnesota $171,467 $14,288 $3,297 $82.44
Michigan $170,777 $14,231 $3,284 $82.10
New Mexico $170,501 $14,208 $3,278 $81.97
Indiana $169,638 $14,136 $3,262 $81.56
Ohio $166,670 $13,889 $3,205 $80.13
Arizona $166,130 $13,844 $3,194 $79.87
Connecticut $165,286 $13,773 $3,178 $79.46
Mississippi $164,126 $13,677 $3,156 $78.91
Iowa $163,921 $13,660 $3,152 $78.81
Montana $163,627 $13,635 $3,146 $78.67
Arkansas $163,030 $13,585 $3,135 $78.38
Alabama $161,584 $13,465 $3,107 $77.68
Utah $159,236 $13,269 $3,062 $76.56
Tennessee $159,121 $13,260 $3,060 $76.50
Kansas $154,538 $12,878 $2,971 $74.30
Georgia $150,529 $12,544 $2,894 $72.37
Louisiana $149,706 $12,475 $2,878 $71.97
West Virginia $138,728 $11,560 $2,667 $66.70
Florida $133,219 $11,101 $2,561 $64.05

Source: ZipRecruiter

Pediatrician Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Alongside earning a $100,000 salary or more, most pediatricians also receive superior employee benefits. If a pediatrician runs their own practice, they will need to supply themselves and their employees with these benefits.

Those who are employed by employers like hospitals or medical groups can expect to gain access to benefits like paid time off, health insurance, and retirement accounts. They may also have unique benefits like continuing education allowances and malpractice insurance coverage.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Pediatrician Salary

The main advantage associated with competitive pay for pediatricians is that they are quite high. With a median salary of $198,420, pediatricians are greatly rewarded for their hard work.

However, they must pursue many years of higher education to earn that salary. Many young doctors struggle under the weight of their student loan payments. So, while this salary may seem high at first glance, much of it can go towards student loan debt initially.

It’s also worthwhile to consider work-life balance. Being a pediatrician and improving the health of children can be a very rewarding career, but it can also involve long, tiring hours and being on call for patients on nights and weekends. Medical problems and emergencies crop up all the time, so this is a factor to acknowledge.

Recommended: How Much House Can I Afford?

The Takeaway

Pediatricians can earn very high pay while making a big difference in the lives of their patients and their families. They do have to commit to many years of schooling and education to become a pediatrician, but once they do, they can earn a great living.

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FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a pediatrician?

Most pediatricians make $100,000 a year or more, especially after gaining a few years of work experience. The median annual salary for a pediatrician is $198,420.

Do people like being a pediatrician?

Pursuing a career in pediatric medicine is a major commitment and those who are passionate about this field and patient care are likely to really enjoy their work. However, this role requires many hours of patient interaction a day, so even if someone finds the work fascinating, it won’t be a good fit for them if they are antisocial.

Is it hard to get hired as a pediatrician?

The main challenge in getting hired as a pediatrician surrounds not having the right credentials. Potential pediatricians must pursue medical school and any required medical licenses in order to find a job in this field, which is no easy feat.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/alvarez

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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How Much Does a Nurse Practitioner Make a Year?

With a higher degree of training and more responsibilities, nurse practitioners, or NPs, can expect to earn around $132,000 a year.

In addition to a good salary, NPs may also enjoy a degree of job security, as the need for the profession continues to grow.

According to the most recent figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of NP jobs is expected to grow 35% over the next decade — faster than nearly every other occupation in the U.S.

Read on to better understand what it’s like to work as a nurse practitioner and what your earning potential may be.

Key Points

•   Nurse practitioners earn a median annual salary of $132,000, with potential for higher earnings.

•   Employment growth for nurse practitioners is projected at 35% over the next decade.

•   Entry-level nurse practitioners typically earn less than $99,000 annually.

•   Highest salaries are found in home health care, outpatient care centers, and hospitals.

•   Full-time benefits include medical and dental insurance, paid vacation, and retirement contribution matching.

What Are Nurse Practitioners?

A nurse practitioner works with patients to help coordinate and execute their care.

The exact tasks an NP can take on depend on what is allowed in the state they are working in, but in many states, they can order medical tests, provide patient diagnoses, and even prescribe medications.

Some of the work nurse practitioners do will be independent, but usually their jobs involve a lot of patient interaction and collaboration with physicians and other medical professionals.

Because this role requires so much human interaction, it may not be a great fit for anyone who is an introvert.

Recommended: Work-at-Home Jobs for Retirees

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How Much Do Starting Nurse Practitioners Make?

How much money does a nurse practitioner make in the early days of their career? According to ZipRecruiter, the lowest 10% of earners in this field typically make less than $99,000, but it’s crucial to remember their entry-level salary can rise as they gain experience. The highest 10% of earners stand to make more than $180,000 a year.

As you move up in your career, so can your salary. A money tracker app can help keep tabs on your spending and make progress toward your financial goals.

What Is the Average Salary for a Nurse Practitioner?

How much does a nurse practitioner make an hour? The median hourly wage for nurse practitioners is $63.46. The actual amount someone stands to earn as a nurse practitioner can vary depending on what industry they work in.

Those looking to earn a more competitive wage can tailor their job search to a more lucrative field. For example, this is what the median annual wage looks like for nurse practitioners in a few different industries:

•   Home health care services: $130,410

•   Outpatient care centers: $143,600

•   Hospitals: $138,340

•   Offices of physicians: $139,070

•   Offices of dentists: $137,170

Whatever your income, an online budget planner can give you insights on your budgeting and spending.

What Is the Average Nurse Practitioner Salary by State for 2025?

The state that nurse practitioners work in can also affect their earnings.

This table outlines the average nurse practitioner salary by state:

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $109,650
Alaska $142,340
Arizona $132,920
Arkansas $116,030
California $173,190
Colorado $127,610
Connecticut $141,140
Delaware $130,190
District of Columbia $137,600
Florida $128,340
Georgia $125,490
Hawaii $135,020
Idaho $131,380
Illinois $128,880
Indiana $126,520
Iowa $133,020
Kansas $127,900
Kentucky $116,930
Louisiana $124,850
Maine $127,750
Maryland $127,100
Massachusetts $145,140
Michigan $127,200
Minnesota $128,120
Mississippi $122,930
Missouri $124,600
Montana $131,560
Nebraska $127,950
Nevada n/a
New Hampshire $133,360
New Jersey $140,470
New Mexico $136,620
New York $148,410
North Carolina $124,830
North Dakota $121,200
Ohio $121,250
Oklahoma $127,120
Oregon $148,030
Pennsylvania $126,730
Rhode Island $139,600
South Carolina $113,950
South Dakota $122,300
Tennessee $108,180
Texas $130,930
Utah $131,680
Vermont $130,580
Virginia $122,180
Washington $143,620
West Virginia $122,140
Wisconsin $130,490
Wyoming $126,060

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Recommended: Is $100,000 a Good Salary?

Nurse Practitioner Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Alongside earning a median annual wage of $132,000, many nurse practitioners qualify for valuable employee benefits like paid vacation, medical and dental insurance, and retirement contribution matching. It’s very common to work full time as a nurse practitioner, and many salaried roles come with benefits.

Increasingly, AI is being used to automate routine tasks, which can help NPs focus more on patient care. So those considering a career as a nurse practitioner may want to explore educational courses or certifications on AI in health care.

Pros and Cons of Nurse Practitioner Salary

Before rushing head first into a new career path, potential NPs will want to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the profession.

Pros:

•   High rate of employment growth (35% projected from 2024 to 2034)

•   Large number of job openings (32,700 each year)

•   Full-time roles with benefits available

•   High earning potential

Cons:

•   May need to work nights, weekends, or holidays

•   Physically and emotionally demanding job

•   Exposure to germs

•   May need to be on call

•   Need a master’s degree or better

•   Requires a professional license

The Takeaway

If someone has a passion for practicing medicine and providing patient care, then they may find that working as a nurse practitioner is emotionally and fiscally rewarding. They can expect to earn a median annual salary of $132,000, but with time and more experience, they can see their salary increase.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What is the highest paying nurse practitioner job?

If someone is looking to earn the most as a nurse practitioner, they may want to apply for jobs at hospitals. Nurse practitioners who work at hospitals tend to earn more than those in other workplaces (a median salary of $132,000).

Do nurse practitioners make $100K a year?

It is very possible to earn a salary of $100,000 or more per year as a nurse practitioner. The lowest 25% of earners in this field make less than $108,000, per ZipRecruiter, but the median annual salary is $132,000. The top 10% of earners can make more than $180,000 a year.

The top 10% of earners can make more than $180,000 a year.

How much do Nurse Practitioners make starting out?

In the early days of their career, nurse practitioners can expect to earn a lower salary than some of their more experienced counterparts. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $99,000, but that salary will likely rise over the years.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.



Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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