Physician Assistant vs Psychiatrist salary
In South Africa, a psychiatrist earns about 83% more than a physician assistant — $98,454 vs $53,936 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is ZAR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Healthcare
Psychiatrist$98,454/yr
- Monthly
- $8,207
- Hourly
- $47
- Range
- $67,444–$136,363
- 10-yr outlook
- +8%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Physician Assistant | Psychiatrist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $39,376 | $67,444 |
| 25th | $46,653 | $82,946 |
| Median | $53,936 | $98,454 |
| 75th | $62,834 | $117,405 |
| Senior (90th) | $71,737 | $136,363 |
National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a physician assistant or psychiatrist earn more in South Africa?
- A psychiatrist earns more, at about R 1 610 000 per year vs R 882 000 for a physician assistant — roughly 83% (R 728 000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
- A physician assistant typically earns R 643 900–R 1 173 100, while a psychiatrist earns R 1 102 900–R 2 229 900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a physician assistant averages about R 73 500 and a psychiatrist about R 134 200.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a physician assistant earns about R 643 900 while a psychiatrist earns about R 1 102 900 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a physician assistant earns about R 1 173 100 while a psychiatrist earns about R 2 229 900 per year.
- Are physician assistant and psychiatrist 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.