Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Physician vs Psychologist salary

In United States, a physician earns about 128% more than a psychologist $269,000 vs $118,000 per year.

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

Pays more
Healthcare
Physician
$269,000/yr
Monthly
$22,400
Hourly
$129
Range
$172,200$387,400
10-yr outlook
+3%
Healthcare
Psychologist
$118,000/yr
Monthly
$9,800
Hourly
$57
Range
$80,800$163,400
10-yr outlook
+6%

Pay range, side by side

PercentilePhysicianPsychologist
Entry (10th)$172,200$80,800
25th$220,600$99,400
Median$269,000$118,000
75th$328,200$140,700
Senior (90th)$387,400$163,400

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

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a physician or psychologist earn more in United States?
A physician earns more, at about $269,000 per year vs $118,000 for a psychologist — roughly 128% ($151,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A physician typically earns $172,200–$387,400, while a psychologist earns $80,800–$163,400 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a physician averages about $22,400 and a psychologist about $9,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a physician earns about $172,200 while a psychologist earns about $80,800 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a physician earns about $387,400 while a psychologist earns about $163,400 per year.
Are physician and psychologist 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.