Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Physician Assistant vs Psychiatrist salary

In United States, a psychiatrist earns about 89% more than a physician assistant — $301,000 vs $159,000 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Healthcare
Physician Assistant
$159,000/yr
Monthly
$13,300
Hourly
$76
Range
$116,100–$211,500
10-yr outlook
+27%
Pays more
Healthcare
Psychiatrist
$301,000/yr
Monthly
$25,100
Hourly
$145
Range
$206,200–$416,900
10-yr outlook
+8%

Pay range, side by side

PercentilePhysician AssistantPsychiatrist
Entry (10th)$116,100$206,200
25th$137,500$253,600
Median$159,000$301,000
75th$185,200$358,900
Senior (90th)$211,500$416,900

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

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Frequently asked questions

Does a physician assistant or psychiatrist earn more in United States?
A psychiatrist earns more, at about $301,000 per year vs $159,000 for a physician assistant — roughly 89% ($142,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A physician assistant typically earns $116,100–$211,500, while a psychiatrist earns $206,200–$416,900 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a physician assistant averages about $13,300 and a psychiatrist about $25,100.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a physician assistant earns about $116,100 while a psychiatrist earns about $206,200 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a physician assistant earns about $211,500 while a psychiatrist earns about $416,900 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.