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Becoming a surgeon requires committing to many years of school and putting in countless clinical hours. The good news is that all the time and hard work can lead to a fulfilling career that pays well. The mean annual pay for general surgeons (excluding specialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, oral, and maxillofacial surgeons) in the U.S. as of May 2024 is $371,280, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

It’s important to remember that this is just the average salary. Where a surgeon lives, the type of surgery specialty they take on, and a host of other factors can influence how much they can earn. Keep reading for more insight into how much surgeons make.

What Are Surgeons?

A surgeon is a medical professional who operates on patients to treat injuries (such as broken bones), diseases (like cancerous tumors), and deformities (such as cleft palates). A surgeon can have an M.D. (Medical Doctor) or D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree.

A surgeon doesn’t only perform operations, however. These specialists are also responsible for the preoperative diagnosis of the patient and for providing the patient with postoperative surgical care and treatment. The surgeon is also looked upon as the leader of the surgical team.

Surgeons can typically expect to work long days, primarily in person, so this type of job is probably not a good fit for anyone looking for a work-from-home job. However, surgeons can work in a variety of different settings. These include:

•   Private practice

•   Academic medicine

•   Institutional practice

•   Hospitals

•   Ambulatory surgery settings

•   Government service programs

How Much Does a Surgeon Make Starting Out?

General surgeons can earn an impressive entry-level salary, averaging $339,174, according to ZipRecruiter. Most earn between $303,000 and $400,000.

💡 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.

What is the Average Salary for a Surgeon?

You can measure how much a surgeon makes by looking at both their average hourly rate and annual salary. The national average hourly salary for a surgeon is $178.50, while the average annual pay for a surgeon in the U.S. is $371,280.

The type of specialty a surgeon chooses to practice can impact how much they earn. What surgical specialty makes the most? Let’s take a quick glance at the average annual wages for surgeons with varying specialties:

•   Orthopedic surgeon: $365,060

•   Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: $360,240

•   Pediatric surgeon: $450,810

•   Cardiothoracic surgeon:$367,474

•   Plastic surgeon: $356,489

•   Mohs surgeon: $345,926

What Is the Average Surgeon Salary by State?

How much money a surgeon makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much general surgeons make per year, on average, by state, according to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, as of 2024 (the most recent data available). These statistics exclude specialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, oral, and maxillofacial surgeons. Please note that data is not available for all states.

Surgeon Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Surgeons typically work in clinical settings, such as physicians’ offices and hospitals, including academic hospitals associated with residency programs and medical schools.

The average annual salary for a surgeon is $371,280, but surgeons can actually earn a lot more when you look at their total compensation package including benefits.

Because surgeons often work full-time for a specific hospital, company, or organization, prospective surgeons can expect to find a job that offers them the standard suite of employee benefits, including healthcare, paid vacation, vision and dental insurance, and a retirement plan.

In addition to these benefits, some surgeons also receive life insurance policies, continuing medical education (CME), flexible scheduling, research and academic support, and development programs.

Pros and Cons of a Surgeon’s Salary

Becoming a surgeon takes a lot of hard work and discipline, but surgeons can also change the lives of their patients every single day and earn a substantial income at the same time. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of choosing a career as a surgeon.

Pros of Being a Surgeon

Being a surgeon offers potential benefits like:

•   Ability to help people A surgeon can help people experience less discomfort, pain, and stress, and even save their lives. Surgeons also train and mentor junior colleagues.

•   Opportunity to work as part of a team Surgeons typically collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists to provide comprehensive care to patients. (Consequently, it may not be the ideal medical specialty for someone who is naturally more of an introvert.)

•   High compensation The national average salary of surgeons is $371,280 per year but can go as high as $450,000 or more, depending on location, years of experience, certifications, and other factors. Surgeons also typically get benefits like health insurance and 401(k) plans.

•   Consistent schedule Depending on their specialty and seniority, some surgeons are able to have a regular work schedule and perform surgeries during certain hours. This can help promote a healthy work-life balance.

•   Chance to work in different environments Surgeons can work in a variety of places, including hospitals, private practices, and other medical centers. Many surgeons also have offices where they consult with patients in addition to the centers where they do surgery.

Recommended: 27 Fulfilling Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

Cons of Being a Surgeon

However, surgeons also face the following challenges:

•   Long and rigorous educational requirements To become a surgeon, you typically need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program, a four-year degree program at a medical school, and a three- to seven-year internship or residency program. All told, it can take 11 to 15 years of studying in school to enter the field of surgery.

•   Long hours Depending on your specialty and where you work, you may need to work long hours. Indeed, general surgeons may work 50 to 60 hours per week. In addition, some surgeons need to be on call on evenings and weekends.

•   High-pressure job Surgery generally involves a certain level of risk and surgeons are under pressure to perform procedures with no errors in order to ensure a positive outcome for their patients. Surgeons need to be able to stay calm and focused under pressure.

•   Burnout potential Depending on their specialty, some surgeons may be required to perform the same procedures each day, sometimes more than once per day. This could potentially lead to job burnout over time.

•   High education costs Going to school for all the years required to become a surgeon can be expensive. As a result, surgeons may take on a lot of student loan debt, which they’ll need to repay once they start practicing. This can lessen the average surgeon’s salary.


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

The Takeaway

Becoming a surgeon requires years of study and practice, including medical school and residencies. Those who are up for the challenge can earn a high salary, especially if they go into one of the more lucrative specialties. Since surgeons earn such a high income, they need to find a way to manage their money and use it to reach their goals.

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.

FAQ

What is the highest paying surgeon job?

Neurosurgeons, also called neurological surgeons, are the highest-paid surgeons. These doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the brain, spine, and nervous system, and can make upward of $780,000.

Do surgeons make $300k a year?

Many surgeons make $300,000 or more per year. The following specialties all earn an average salary well over $300,000: orthopedic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, and Mohs surgery.

How much do surgeons make starting out?

General surgeons just starting out average $339,174 annually, according to ZipRecruiter.

About the author

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.

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

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 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.

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

SORL-Q425-031

Lawyers are highly educated and command high salaries to match. How much a lawyer earns a year depends on what type of law they practice and their competence and experience.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a lawyer in May 2024 (the latest data available) was $182,750 per year, or $87.86 per hour.

Corporate lawyers who work in the private sector tend to earn more than those in the public sector (such as district attorneys or public defenders), and sole practitioners typically earn less money than lawyers at large firms.

Read on to learn more about how much a lawyer makes, where you can find top-paying jobs for lawyers, and the benefits and drawbacks of becoming a lawyer.

What Does a Lawyer Do?

Lawyers advise and represent clients on legal proceedings or transactions. They typically conduct in-depth research into law, regulations, and past rulings. They also prepare legal documents, including legal complaints, wills, and contracts.

Not an ideal job for people with social anxiety, the legal profession often requires that lawyers appear in court in support of their clients and present evidence in hearings and trials, as well as in arbitration and plea bargaining. Lawyers also counsel their clients in legal matters and suggest courses of action.

A lawyer’s exact duties will vary depending on the type of law they practice. For example, criminal defense attorneys advocate on behalf of those accused of criminal activity; family lawyers handle family-related legal issues like divorce, adoption, and child welfare; and corporate lawyers work on legal matters for businesses.

Some lawyers work for the government or in the public’s interest, and are known as public interest lawyers. Public defense attorneys, for example, represent criminal defendants who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Public interest lawyers also work for nonprofit organizations to support civil rights and social justice causes.

Other types of lawyers include:

•   Environmental lawyers

•   Bankruptcy lawyers

•   Immigration lawyers

•   Intellectual property lawyers

•   Entertainment lawyers

•   Tax lawyers

•   Personal injury lawyers

•   Estate planning lawyers


💡 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 Lawyers Make a Year?

Lawyers tend to be well paid even at the
entry level because they are highly trained. And, the more experience a lawyer gains, generally the more they can earn. According to ZipRecruiter, entry-level lawyers make $100,626 a year, on average, with a range from $47,000 or lower to $138,000 or more.

Those who choose to invest the time, money, and work into becoming a lawyer can feel relatively confident about being able to get a job when they graduate: The BLS projects an increase of 35,900 attorney jobs between 2024 and 2034, representing a 4% growth (which is about average for other occupations).

Recommended: What Trade Job Makes the Most Money?

How Much Money Does a Lawyer Make a Year on Average?

According to the BLS’s most recent data, the average salary for a lawyer in 2024 was $182,760. The best-paid 25% made $215,420 or more that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $99,760.

A lawyer working for a law firm or as in-house counsel will typically be paid with an annual salary versus an hourly wage, but the average hourly pay for a lawyer works out to be $87.86 an hour.

How much a lawyer makes, however, can vary widely depending on their experience, specialty, and location.

The highest paying legal specialties include:

•   Patent attorney

•   Intellectual property attorney

•   Trial lawyer

•   Tax attorney

•   Corporate lawyer

The cities that pay the highest lawyer salaries are:

•   San Jose, California ($314,430)

•   San Francisco, California ($275,170)

•   Los Angeles, California ($270,610)

•   Santa Rosa, California ($258,550)

•   Bridgeport, Connecticut ($238,240)

Recommended: 11 Work-From-Home Jobs Great for Retirees

How Much Money Does a Lawyer Make by State?

As mentioned above, how much money a lawyer makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a lawyer makes per year, on average, by state.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Lawyer Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

To get a job as a lawyer, you must complete an undergraduate degree and then attend law school to earn a Juris Doctor degree, or J.D. This can mean four years pursuing a bachelor’s degree, followed by three years of law school (or four years if you go to law school part time).

After graduating from law school, you’ll need to pass the multi-day bar exam for the state in which you want to practice. In addition, most states also require lawyers to keep up to date with law and take training courses throughout their career.

The hard work and financial investment can pay off, however. In addition to competitive pay, lawyers who work full time for a specific company or organization typically get a wide variety of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, flexible scheduling, and more. They may also get bonuses for cases won and coverage for the costs of bar association fees as well as training and development opportunities.

💡 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 a Lawyer’s Salary

Becoming a lawyer can be a clear path to making more than $100,000 but, as with any profession, working as a lawyer comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of this role will help you determine if you’re well-suited for this career path.

Pros of Becoming a Lawyer

•   Multiple job opportunities: As a lawyer, you have a variety of career paths, giving you the opportunity to work in an area you feel passionate about, whether that is corporate law, family law, real estate law, criminal law, or immigration law.

•   Option to start your own practice: With a law degree and significant experience, you may be able to start your own business and determine what types of clients you want to represent and how many cases you want to take on at any one given time.

•   Earn a high salary: Lawyers have the potential to earn well into six figures a year. Though you may not earn this salary right out of the gate, there is ample opportunity for career advancement and salary increases over time.

•   Stimulating and challenging work: As a lawyer, your daily duties will likely be intellectually challenging. Lawyers typically need to understand complex legal theories, form a hypothesis and create a legal strategy to benefit their clients, and argue and debate in a courtroom.

Cons of Becoming a Lawyer

•   Work can be stressful: Lawyers must meet deadlines as well as the demands of their clients. You may also come across stressful and emotionally difficult cases, which can take a psychological toll.

•   Long hours: This professional is notorious for its long hours, particular for those who are just starting out in a prestigious law practice. It’s not unusual for an associate lawyer to put in 60 to 90 hours a week each week, depending on the demands of the case they’re working on.

•   High level of student debt: In addition to a bachelor’s degree, lawyers need to pay for law school, which often comes with a high price tag. Generally, the more prestigious the school, the higher the price. Even with a high salary, new lawyers may not be able to pay off their debt for many years.

•   Today’s clients have more options: Getting clients has gotten more competitive with the rise of self-help legal websites, legal document technicians, and virtual law offices. If an individual seeks legal advice or counsel, they don’t always have to go to a lawyer for help.

The Takeaway

A law degree is a valuable credential that takes around seven years of study to achieve (including a bachelor’s degree). Lawyers can choose where they want to work and what type of law they would like to specialize in, whether it be criminal law, corporate law, environmental law, or immigration law, among other options.

The amount a lawyer makes will vary depending on their experience, the type of law they practice, and where in the country they work. According to the BLS, the highest paid lawyers earn $215,000 or more, and the lowest paid lawyers may earn $78,000 or less.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To help ensure your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a basic budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

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.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a lawyer?

Yes. Most lawyers earn over $100k a year. The average salary for a lawyer, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $182,750 per year. The best-paid lawyers, however, can earn more than $200,000 a year.

Do people like being a lawyer?

Being a lawyer can be a great career choice if you enjoy working in a fast-paced and challenging environment and have an interest in upholding laws and defending an individual’s rights. According to a recent survey by Law360 Pulse, 61% of surveyed attorneys report they are satisfied or very satisfied with their overall job.

Is it hard to get hired as a lawyer?

It’s generally not hard to find a job as a lawyer after you pass the bar exam, especially if you attended a top-rated law school, graduated in the top third of your class, and/or had strong internships and clerkships. Jobs for lawyers are expected to grow 4% between 2024 and 2034.

Photo credit: iStock/shapecharge

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.

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

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 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.

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

SORL-Q425-047

Firefighters make an average of $63,890 per year nationwide. However, firefighter compensation varies by location and position, so salaries can climb up into six figures for higher leadership positions. As a result, firefighting can provide competitive annual pay for those who want to do the rewarding work of rescuing others during emergencies.

Read on to learn more about the income, responsibilities, and pros and cons of pursuing a career as a firefighter.

What Are Firefighters?

Firefighters are trained professionals who respond to fires, rescue situations, hazardous material spills, and medical emergencies. Their primary responsibility is to protect life, property, and the environment from the adverse effects of human-made and natural fires.

These dedicated professionals navigate unpredictable circumstances with selflessness. The job can be dangerous but also a very rewarding career. A few details to note:

•   Firefighters are typically employed by city, county, state, and federal governments.

•   Because fires and other emergencies are dangerous, these professionals put their lives on the line every day.

•   The job is demanding because shifts can last 24 hours. Firefighters usually work full-time.

Additionally, firefighters typically have emergency medical technician (EMT) certifications because they respond to health crises. For instance, local fire departments provide critical assistance for people trapped under debris from a storm. Likewise, they often transport the injured to hospitals and health facilities. For this reason, most firefighters can drive and operate ambulances as well as fire trucks.


💡 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.

Examples of Firefighter Job Responsibilities

Here are the essential duties of firefighters, most of which relate to helping individuals and communities during emergencies:

1.    Fire suppression: As the name implies, a firefighter’s definitive job is extinguishing fires. This includes house fires and wildfires. Firefighters use various tools and equipment, such as water hoses, fire extinguishers, and specialized vehicles, to control and put out fires.

2.    Rescue operations: Firefighters are trained in various rescue techniques to save people from dangerous situations, including individuals trapped in buildings, vehicles, or natural disasters.

3.    Emergency medical response: Many firefighters are emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics. This training allows them to provide prehospital medical care, including administering first aid and stabilizing patients until they are transported to a hospital.

4.    Hazardous materials response: Firefighters are usually the first on the scene of accidents involving hazardous chemicals and materials. For instance, if a tanker truck crashes, firefighters use specialized equipment to contain and mitigate the effects of the spill.

5.    Public education and prevention: A part of firefighters’ public service is engaging in community outreach and educational efforts supporting fire safety and best practices for emergency response. They also provide tours of fire departments to residents.

6.    Equipment maintenance: Firefighters rely on their gear and equipment to perform their jobs, and disasters can occur at any time. As a result, maintaining and cleaning their equipment, including fire engines, tools, and personal protective gear, is vital.

How Much Do Starting Firefighters Make a Year?

An entry-level firefighter’s salary varies depending on location, but averages $59,606, according to ZipRecruiter. While the starting pay can be lower than it is for some other jobs, firefighters can increase their salaries by getting promoted to leadership positions or specializing in a certain aspect of the job.

For instance, a firefighter officer leads teams of firefighters and can earn an annual salary of $161,372, according to ZipRecruiter. So, yes, it is possible to earn a $100,000 salary or more as a firefighter.

Remember, changing locations can also help increase firefighters’ compensation. For instance, firefighters in North Carolina earn an average salary of $42,450, while positions in New Jersey have an average pay of $87,710. (Of course, the local cost of living may rise along with the pay.)

What is the Average Salary for a Firefighter?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics database shows that the average firefighter salary is $63,890 annually vs. hourly pay of $30.72. Here’s a breakdown of the average firefighter salary by state, listed alphabetically:

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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

Firefighter Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

As a firefighter, you can expect to make $63,890 on average — a bit more than the average salary in the U.S., which is currently about $62,088. Additionally, numerous benefits come with the job to enhance your financial well-being and quality of life.

For example:

•   Full-time firefighters receive health and dental insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, tax-advantaged retirement plans, and pensions.

•   Union firefighters can receive their pay and benefits through a contract, locking in their compensation package.

•   Firefighters can qualify for exclusive financial aid and scholarships for higher education. For instance, The Maryland State Firemen’s Association gives scholarships to students getting degrees in fire science or medical emergency services. This could help students who might otherwise be entering a career without a college degree.

•   Firefighters can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing they helped their neighbors. From pulling children out of burning buildings to assisting the injured, a firefighter’s duty centers on safeguarding life. As a result, the profession is personally meaningful and fulfilling. (It’s worth noting, though, that given the human interaction involved, it may not be the best career for an introvert.)

Pros and Cons of Firefighter Salary

Being a firefighter means enjoying the perks of the job while making the best of the drawbacks. Here’s a comparison of the two:

Pros

First, the upsides of pursuing this career:

•   Helping others: Firefighters can derive a deep sense of purpose from directly contributing to the safety and well-being of their communities. The opportunity to protect individuals and families is a significant motivator for people drawn to this profession. Additionally, their willingness to put themselves in harm’s way to save others can garner appreciation and gratitude.

•   Straightforward qualifications: Becoming a firefighter typically requires having a high school diploma or GED, passing a physical fitness test, and being at least 18 years old. The position’s accessibility allows individuals from diverse educational backgrounds to pursue a career in firefighting without extensive academic qualifications.

Furthermore, firefighters interested in more education can acquire extensive education (including EMT training) and scholarships for higher education to advance their positions.

•   Competitive pay and benefits: While entry-level firefighting positions might offer low initial pay, more experienced firefighters can earn a competitive salary vs. the national average. Considering the accessible entry-level requirements, the job has good pay and benefits without extensive education. Likewise, full-time firefighters receive comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. While it’s likely not the highest paying job in your area, it reliably put food on the table.

•   Tight work bonds: Firefighters work closely as a team and forge strong bonds with their colleagues. The nature of emergency response requires cooperation and communication, creating a sense of camaraderie among team members. Additionally, firefighters often face challenging situations together, leading to shared experiences that strengthen their professional and personal relationships.

•   Federal loan forgiveness: Firefighters may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness if they meet specific criteria. The PSLF Program is designed to assist public service providers, including firefighters, in repaying their federal student loan debt.

Cons

Next, consider the potential downsides of becoming a firefighter:

•   Safety risk: Firefighters face inherent risks associated with entering burning buildings, handling hazardous materials, and engaging in rescue operations. Long-term exposure to smoke and chemicals is also dangerous. These physical hazards can lead to injuries, health complications, or loss of life.

•   Challenging work schedule: Firefighters often work in shifts, which can be as long as 24 hours and include working overnight. For this reason, firefighters typically work more than 50 hours per week instead of a conventional nine-to-five job. Combined with the challenging situations firefighters tackle, the job might not be a fit for those who want a low-stress job or folks who prefer to work from home sometimes.

•   Few to no traditional weekends or holidays off: Firefighters frequently work on weekends and holidays because emergencies happen regardless of the time of year. This can impact personal and family life, as firefighters won’t have the same days off as people working in more traditional Monday-to-Friday roles.

The Takeaway

Across America, the mean salary for how much a firefighter makes a year is $63,890, though the earning potential can rise into six figures. Firefighters play a crucial role in safeguarding people, property, and the environment from the adverse effects of fires and emergencies. Responding to a wide range of needs, from fire suppression to rescue operations and medical emergencies, firefighters are dedicated professionals who undergo extensive training to serve their communities effectively. However, the job is a challenging one, with inherent health and well-being risks, as well as potentially long hours and considerable stress.

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

Can you make 100k a year as a firefighter?

While the national median salary for a firefighter is $63,890, making $100k a year in the profession is achievable. For instance, the positions of fire lieutenant, captain, and chief may have the potential to pay six figures.

Do people like being a firefighter?

Firefighting can be a fulfilling, meaningful career because the job is about helping others in emergencies and dire circumstances. However, it can also be mentally and emotionally taxing because of the intensity of the work. Therefore, whether you like being a firefighter will depend on your job preferences and outlook.

Is it hard to get hired as a firefighter?

The path to becoming a firefighter involves getting your high school diploma or GED, passing a written exam, a physical, and an in-person interview. Thus, while the educational barriers are low, getting hired as a firefighter can require discipline and commitment.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. 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.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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 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.

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

SORL-Q425-045

The mean annual wage for a dermatologist as of May 2024 data (the most recent available) from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is $347,810. This career can be a challenging and rewarding profession, both financially and emotionally. Dermatologists can help their patients look and feel their best. In some cases, they can even save their lives.

Read on to better understand what it’s like to work as a dermatologist, how much they earn, and the benefits and downsides of choosing this line of work.

What Are Dermatologists?

Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in the field of dermatology. They manage diagnoses and treatments relating to skin, hair, and nail health. They help patients with issues ranging from eczema and skin infections to acne and skin cancer.

Some dermatologists perform cosmetic procedures like laser treatments, injections, and chemical peels. An important role that dermatologists also take on is educating patients on sun protection to help them avoid running into skin damage and skin cancer.

As you might imagine, considerable training is involved to become a dermatologist. Typically, it can take 12 years of training and education. To complete this, some aspiring dermatologists will take out student loans. Their average student loan debt can be similar to what any other medical doctor takes on, meaning in the range of $200,000.

💡 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 Dermatologists Make a Year?

It’s important to note that dermatologists will likely see their salaries rise over time. While their entry-level salary may be lower than the average figure, it should rise as their careers progress.

That being said, the lowest 10% of earners in this role make an estimated annual wage of $118,540 or lower. So even the lowest income is likely around or over the $100,000 a year salary level.

What is the Average Salary for a Dermatologist?

As briefly noted earlier, the average salary or hourly wage for a dermatologist can be affected by where they work.

This applies to the type of medical practice or healthcare setting they work in. Consider the annual mean wage by workplace, all of which can be relatively high-paying:

•   Outpatient care centers: $474,470

◦   Offices of physicians: $357,160

•   General medical and surgical hospitals: $276,280

•   Personal care services: $173,370

•   Merchant wholesalers, nondurable goods: $172,080

Next, take a closer look at how dermatologists’ salaries vary by the state they work in, according to the BLS. Please note that information is not available for all states.

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

Dermatologist Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

In addition to receiving competitive pay, many dermatologists work full-time and therefore qualify for employer benefits.

•   If they run their own medical practice, they would need to purchase these benefits for themselves and their employees.

•   If they work for a practice they don’t own, for a medical group, or in a hospital setting, they should qualify for valuable employee benefits like paid time off, retirement accounts, and health care.

Pros and Cons of Dermatologist Salary

The main advantage of a dermatologist salary is that it is usually quite high. The tradeoff for that high salary may be a lot of student loan debt, as noted above.

To work as a dermatologist in the United States, you need to attend and finance medical school after receiving an undergraduate degree, which can be quite time-consuming and costly.

The Takeaway

Working as a dermatologist makes it possible to help people dealing with skin concerns, while earning a good salary. Dermatologists earn a mean annual wage of $347,810, which is a salary many people would be happy with. However, obtaining the necessary training can be quite expensive, so dermatologists may start their careers with considerable student loan debt to pay off.

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

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a dermatologist?

It’s very possible to earn $100,000 a year as a dermatologist. The mean annual salary for a dermatologist in the U.S. is $347,810.

Do people like being a dermatologist?

Many people enjoy working as a dermatologist since this role can be fulfilling on several levels. Not only is the work interesting (diagnosing and resolving health concerns), but it involves helping people live healthier and happier lives.

Is it hard to get hired as a dermatologist?

It may not be challenging to find a job as a dermatologist once you have the proper qualifications. The field is growing at a rate that is at least on par with other professions, if not higher.

About the author

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.

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

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 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.

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

SORL-Q425-039

If you have an interest in both art and technology as well as a knack for creating distinctive visual designs, you might consider a career as a graphic designer. On average, graphic designers make $68,610 a year on average in the U.S., according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How much money a graphic designer makes, however, can vary widely depending on their education, experience, job location, and industry. But with a little career savvy, you can fulfill your creative passions without having to be a starving artist.

What Are Graphic Designers?

Graphic designers create visuals to bring ideas to life. They can render their projects by hand or by using design software. Graphic designers may get paid by the hour or earn a yearly salary working for a company.

Here’s a look at some of the duties you might have as a graphic designer.

•   Designing visual marketing materials: This may include creating brand logos, websites, brochures, advertisements, packaging, and other promotional materials.

•   Targeting an audience: Graphic designers must research and understand their target audience so their product can successfully communicate a client’s message.

•   Creating and editing images: This can include both illustrations and photographs.

•   Choosing colors, layout design, and typography: A graphic designer’s mission is to deliver a product that is effective and eye-catching.

•   Staying current: Designers need to be up-to-date with the latest design software and trends.

•   Maintaining deadlines: Graphic designers often need to juggle multiple projects while meeting strict deadlines.

Working as a graphic designer is generally not a job for introverted people. While you may do a fair amount of solo design work, you’ll likely be asked to collaborate with copy editors and marketing teams, meet with clients, and present designs to co-workers and clients for feedback.

Recommended: Best Low-Stress Jobs for Introverts With Anxiety

How Much Do Starting Graphic Designers Make a Year?

While most entry-level graphic designers won’t initially get paid $100,000 a year, it is a position that requires a specific skill set, so you’re likely to earn more than the minimum wage. The average entry level graphic designer salary in the U.S. is $55,951 as of October 29, 2025, but the range typically falls between $41,500 and $65,000, according to ZipRecruiter.

💡 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.

What is the Average Salary for a Graphic Designer?

On average, graphic designers make anywhere from $37,600 to $103,030, with the average falling at $68,610.

How much you can earn as a graphic designer ultimately depends on how much experience you have and what particular design niche you choose. For example, a lead graphic designer makes $91,161 per year on average, according to ZipRecruiter, while a user interface (UI) designer salary averages $100,548.

While working as a graphic designer is not one of the highest-paying jobs in the U.S., people with an interest in both technology and art can find this career deeply fulfilling. The job also provides the opportunity to continually tackle new projects, keeping the work fresh and challenging.

Recommended: What Is a Good Entry-Level Salary?

What is the Average Salary for a Graphic Designer?

Geographic location can influence how much money a graphic designer can make in the U.S. Here’s a look at the average graphic designer salary by state.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Recommended: Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

Graphic Designer Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Within the field of graphic design, there are a number of specialty areas you might consider. Here’s a look at some of the most common types of graphic designers.

•   Web designers specialize in creating functional and visually appealing layouts, while ensuring the design elements are user-friendly.

•   User experience (UX) designers craft the user experience of mobile apps, websites, and other products.

•   User interface (UI) designers focus on the visual, interactive elements of apps, websites, and electronic devices to create aesthetically-pleasing interfaces.

•   Illustrators create visual designs for ad campaigns, magazines, books, and other media. Some may specialize in medical illustrations or children’s books.

•   Print designers come up with images and logos for brochures, business cards, and packaging materials.

•   Identity and branding designers create visual identities for companies and products.

•   Environmental graphic designers create visual designs for physical spaces, including museums, stores, and public spaces.

•   Motion graphic designers can work on animation and moving graphics for TV and movie title sequences, how-to videos, and more.

Degree requirements: To earn competitive pay, most aspiring graphic designers will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited graphic design program. You may also need some additional technical training to meet hiring qualifications for the positions listed above.

Job benefits for a salaried graphic designer can include:

•   Health insurance

•   Dental insurance

•   Vision insurance

•   Vacation/sick leave

•   Retirement plan

💡 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 Being a Graphic Designer

Every job has its pluses and minuses. Here a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of being a graphic designer.

Pros of Being a Graphic Designer

•   Creative fulfillment: Graphic designers get to stretch their artistic muscles by developing captivating visuals for their clients.

•   Good work-life balance: Salaried graphic designers typically work nine-to-five hours. Many have the opportunity to work from home.

•   Freelancing options: If you get tired of working in the same place with the same people, you can choose to freelance. Graphic design is a job you can do almost anywhere at any time.

•   Being part of a team: You’ll likely collaborate with design teams, clients, and marketing professionals.

•   Career longevity: As long as you stay current and on top of your game, you can work as a graphic designer at any age. You could even potentially pick up freelance work as a retiree.

Cons of Being a Graphic Designer

•   Sedentary lifestyle: Being a graphic designer doesn’t require the physical demands of a trade job. You’ll spend a lot of time behind a computer monitor.

•   Solitary work stints: While it’s true you’ll have chances to work with a creative team, much of your hour-to-hour creating happens alone.

•   Stressful deadlines: Even though office hours are typically nine to five, advertising campaigns and projects have hard deadlines you’ll be expected to meet.

•   Difficult clients: Clients may be critical of what you come up with, or they may constantly change their minds.

•   Limited advancement opportunities: Graphic designers tend to stay in their lane. However, you could be moved into a managerial position, and there is still the potential for pay raises every year.

The Takeaway

If you crave expressing yourself as a visual artist, working as a graphic designer can pay you an average of $68,610 a year for doing what you love.

Being a graphic designer also allows you to work in an energetic, collaborative atmosphere, while reaping creative and financial rewards.

Whatever career path you ultimately choose, you’ll want to make sure your potential earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. Try creating a budget and check out financial tools that can help track your spending.

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.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a graphic designer?

The average salary for a general graphic designer is $68,610 in the U.S. While it’s not impossible to make $100,000, you would have to be at the top of your skill set and acquire some specialized experience.

Do people like being a graphic designer?

For many people, graphic design is a stimulating and rewarding career. Individuals who enjoy working on innovative, visual projects and collaborating with creative teams will probably like being a graphic designer.

Is it hard to get hired as a graphic designer?

Landing a job as a general graphic designer can be competitive. You may find it easier to get hired if you have a particular design specialty, such as UX (user experience), UI (user interface), or product design.

Photo credit: iStock/Moyo Studio

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.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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 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.

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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