Doctors In This Specialty Now Average $654,000 In Starting Income

Doctors who treat your gut now earn more than those who treat your feet, according to a 2026 report by AMN Healthcare. While orthopedic surgeons held the highest average starting salary in 2025, the top spot now goes to gastroenterologists, earning an average of $654,000 — a year-over-year increase of roughly 18.5%. Orthopedics, meanwhile, had the steepest drop of any specialty, falling by 12% to an average starting salary of $507,000. By comparison, the average starting salary for all physicians is $419,000.

There are a few factors likely contributing to gastroenterology's high starting pay rates. For one, the number of new gastroenterologists entering the workforce has decreased while many existing specialists are nearing retirement age. Add to this the rise of gut related medical issues, and even colon cancer, among younger Americans and it make sense that gastroenterology is in high demand. The Cancer Research Institute says that 20% of Americans diagnosed with colorectal cancer are under age 55, while more and more millennials and Gen Zers are seeking out medical help for chronic digestive issues even as fewer doctors enter the field.

AMN Healthcare says that an estimated shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036 has meant more competition among health care facilities to recruit top talent across all specialties. This means higher salaries and bigger incentive packages across the board. For example, many physicians are being offered significant signing bonuses, averaging $49,306 — $11,091 more than 2025's average. They're also frequently being offered allowances for relocating, continuing medical education, and student loan repayment. Given how long it takes for doctors to make money after landing a job, these incentives can be a huge pull for up-and-coming physicians.

Beyond gastroenterology, other specialties with average starting incomes above $500,000 include urology ($638,000), otolaryngology ($575,000), radiology ($571,000), cardiology ($568,000 to $650,000), anesthesiology ($525,000), and orthopedics ($507,000). Students pursuing a career in medicine may want to consider these high-demand specialties, but remember these kinds of high-paying jobs also require extensive years of study — up to 16 years, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. However, if 16 years is too much for you, there are still ways to make money in health care without a medical degree.