Pathologists in the United States typically make between about $240,000 to over $360,000 per year in 2025, depending on experience, location, and employment type. The average salary for a pathologist is around $252,000 to $313,000 annually, with higher earnings possible in locum tenens roles or with more experience. Entry-level pathologists may start around $200,000, while more experienced or senior pathologists can earn significantly more, sometimes exceeding $400,000 in private practice or specialized roles.
Salary Ranges and Averages
- Average annual salaries for pathologists are reported between $242,000 and $313,000, with some data showing median salaries around $300,000 to $330,000.
- Entry-level pathologists earn about $200,000 to $220,000, with early career (1-4 years experience) salaries around $220,000.
- More experienced pathologists or those in senior positions may see salaries in the $350,000+ range, with some in private practice or specialized fields making $400,000 or higher.
Factors Affecting Pay
- Locum tenens pathologists can earn an hourly rate which can translate to annual earnings around $416,000, higher than salaried pathologists, but with less job security and benefits.
- Geographic location, type of practice (academic, community, private), and subspecialty can greatly influence compensation.
- Bonuses, profit sharing, and additional compensation from professional services can also increase total earnings.
Overall, pathologists earn a high salary reflecting their specialized training and important role in medical diagnostics. The exact amount varies broadly based on experience, job type, and location. If more detailed salary info is needed for a specific region or type of pathology job, that can be explored as well.
