Cardiothoracic Surgery Salary Data
Median Salary
$1,200,000
Average Salary
$1,776,100
Salary Range
Percentiles
Breakdown
How much does a Cardiothoracic Surgeon make?
As of September 28, 2025, a Cardiothoracic Surgeon earns approximately $1,200,000 per year ($100,000 monthly). Based on an average 78-hour work week, this translates to about $439 per hour.
Explore Cardiothoracic Surgery salaries by location: California, Texas, New York, or view all Cardiothoracic Surgery locations.
Salary Range and Market Analysis
From 15 verified physician salary submissions across the United States, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $1,100,000 to $1,300,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $5,170,000 annually. Compared to the median physician salary of $300,000, Cardiothoracic Surgeon salaries are above the national median.
Career Growth and Employment Trends
The salary progression for Cardiothoracic Surgeon shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $1,945,571, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $1,627,813 – a -16% increase.
Practice Settings and Compensation Structure
On average, base salary accounts for 87% of total compensation—about $1,544,933—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.
Work-Life Balance and Career Satisfaction
Cardiothoracic Surgery physicians report high career satisfaction, rating their specialty 4.1 out of 5, with 100% saying they would choose this specialty again.
Salary Distribution
Distribution based on 15 verified physician salary submissions.
Median Salary: $1,200,000
Physician Satisfaction in Cardiothoracic Surgery
Satisfaction Rating
Average satisfaction rating reported by Cardiothoracic Surgery physicians (1-5 scale).
Would Choose Again
Percentage of Cardiothoracic Surgery physicians who would choose this specialty again.
Career Satisfaction
Physicians cite the variety of cases and patient relationships as most rewarding aspects of this specialty.
Primary Challenges
On-call demands, administrative burden, and work-life balance are cited as the top challenges.
Salary Comparison
Location Statistics
Average Salary
$1,776,100
Median Salary
$1,200,000
Salary Range
$1,100,000 - $1,300,000
National Comparison
National Average
$1,776,100
Difference
+0% vs National Average
Sample Size
15 local / 15 national reports
Salary by Practice Type
| Practice Type | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital-employed | $1,974,500 | 7 submissions |
| Private Practice | $1,200,000 | 3 submissions |
| Academic | $1,012,500 | 4 submissions |
* Practice types with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
Salary by Experience Level
| Years of Experience | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 years | $1,824,500 | 2 submissions |
| 6-10 years | $1,166,667 | 3 submissions |
| 11-15 years | $1,944,000 | 5 submissions |
| 16+ years | $1,954,500 | 5 submissions |
* Experience levels with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
Take-Home Pay Calculator
Cardiothoracic Surgery Salaries by State
Browse All Specialties →Explore cardiothoracic surgery salary data across different states. Click on any state to view detailed compensation information for that location.
Popular Locations
New York City, NY
Average Salary: $400,000
Based on 150 reports
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $380,000
Based on 120 reports
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $350,000
Based on 100 reports
Houston, TX
Average Salary: $340,000
Based on 90 reports
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $360,000
Based on 80 reports
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $370,000
Based on 70 reports
* Showing locations with the most reported salaries.
* Some locations may be omitted if they have fewer than 3 reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Cardiothoracic Surgery.
Data Source: All salary information is based on verified submissions from practicing physicians and is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions.
How to Negotiate Your Cardiothoracic Surgery Salary
Step-by-step guide to negotiating a competitive Cardiothoracic Surgery salary with confidence and data-driven strategies.
Research Market Rates
Research current Cardiothoracic Surgery salary data using verified sources like SalaryDr, MGMA, and local market reports. Document the median, 25th, and 75th percentile ranges for your specialty and experience level.
Learn more →Document Your Value Proposition
Create a comprehensive list of your qualifications, certifications, years of experience, patient outcomes, and any unique skills or subspecialty training. Quantify your contributions with specific metrics where possible.
Analyze Total Compensation Package
Look beyond base salary to include benefits, bonuses, CME allowances, malpractice insurance, retirement contributions, and other perks. Calculate the total compensation value to make informed comparisons.
Prepare Multiple Scenarios
Develop three negotiation scenarios: your minimum acceptable offer, target salary, and ideal compensation package. Be prepared to discuss trade-offs between salary and benefits.
Practice Your Pitch
Rehearse your negotiation conversation focusing on your value to the organization, market data, and specific reasons for your salary request. Practice addressing common objections professionally.
Schedule the Negotiation Meeting
Request a formal meeting with decision-makers. Present your research professionally, emphasize your value, and be prepared to negotiate on multiple aspects of the compensation package.
Professional Tip: This guide provides general recommendations. Always consult with career advisors, mentors, and legal professionals for personalized advice specific to your situation.
Cardiothoracic Surgery Career Opportunities
Explore current job openings and career paths for Cardiothoracic Surgery physicians
Cardiothoracic Surgery - Hospital Employed
Join our healthcare team as a Cardiothoracic Surgery physician. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.
Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance
- ✓Retirement plan with matching
- ✓CME allowance and paid time off
- ✓Malpractice insurance coverage
- ✓Sign-on bonus available
Requirements
- •Board certification in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- •Valid medical license
- •Excellent communication skills
- •Commitment to quality patient care
Cardiothoracic Surgery - Private Practice Opportunity
Exciting private practice opportunity for an experienced Cardiothoracic Surgery physician. Partnership track available with established patient base and modern facilities.
Benefits & Perks
- ✓Partnership opportunity
- ✓Productivity bonuses
- ✓Flexible scheduling
- ✓Modern equipment and facilities
- ✓Marketing support
Requirements
- •Board certification in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- •2+ years of experience preferred
- •Strong clinical skills
- •Business acumen desired
Cardiothoracic Surgery - Locum Tenens
Flexible locum tenens opportunities for Cardiothoracic Surgery physicians. Choose your schedule and location while earning competitive hourly rates.
Benefits & Perks
- ✓Flexible scheduling
- ✓Travel and housing provided
- ✓Malpractice coverage
- ✓Competitive hourly rates
- ✓No administrative duties
Requirements
- •Board certification in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- •Active medical license
- •Willingness to travel
- •Adaptability to different settings
Ready to Advance Your Cardiothoracic Surgery Career?
Join thousands of physicians who have found their ideal positions through our platform. Get personalized job recommendations and salary insights.
Note: Job postings are representative examples based on current market conditions. Actual positions may vary in requirements, compensation, and benefits. Always verify details with employers directly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cardiothoracic Surgery Salaries
What factors influence Cardiothoracic Surgeon salaries?
Cardiothoracic Surgeon salaries are influenced by geographic location, years of experience, practice setting (hospital vs. private practice), subspecialty training, and local market demand. Academic positions typically offer lower base salaries but may include benefits like research opportunities and protected time.
How do Cardiothoracic Surgeon salaries compare to other medical specialties?
Cardiothoracic Surgery is considered a high-earning specialty, with median salaries above $400,000 annually.
What is the job outlook for Cardiothoracic Surgeon?
The demand for Cardiothoracic Surgeon remains strong, driven by an aging population and increased access to healthcare. Job opportunities are expected to grow, particularly in underserved areas and growing metropolitan regions.
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