Physician Assistant vs Surgeon salary
In Canada, a surgeon earns about 106% more than a physician assistant — $381,216 vs $184,960 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CAD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Healthcare
Physician Assistant$184,960/yr
- Monthly
- $15,390
- Hourly
- $89
- Range
- $135,049–$246,025
- 10-yr outlook
- +27%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Physician Assistant | Surgeon |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $135,049 | $243,978 |
| 25th | $159,970 | $312,597 |
| Median | $184,960 | $381,216 |
| 75th | $215,458 | $465,083 |
| Senior (90th) | $246,025 | $548,951 |
National Canada figures in CAD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a physician assistant or surgeon earn more in Canada?
- A surgeon earns more, at about $540,000 per year vs $262,000 for a physician assistant — roughly 106% ($278,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Canada?
- A physician assistant typically earns $191,300–$348,500, while a surgeon earns $345,600–$777,600 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Canada?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a physician assistant averages about $21,800 and a surgeon about $45,000.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Canada, a physician assistant earns about $191,300 while a surgeon earns about $345,600 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Canada, a physician assistant earns about $348,500 while a surgeon earns about $777,600 per year.
- Are physician assistant and surgeon similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Healthcare category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.