Orthopedic Surgeon: Career Guide (2025) – Salary, Education & Certification


💵 Salary Range (USA, 2025)

  • Minimum (entry-level): ~$148,000 - $217,000/year

  • Median: ~$556,800 - $612,200 average; ~$385,900 typical 

  • Maximum (experienced/subspecialists): $700,000 - $1,300,000+ — especially in private or high-demand markets

  • ZipRecruiter data: Average hourly $158 (~$329,000 annual), with 75th - 90th percentile between $350K - $400K+ 

  • High-paying regions: California, Minnesota, Virginia, New Hampshire 

     

🔎 What They Do

Orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues—including bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and nerves. Their work ranges from ACL repairs and joint replacements to spinal surgeries and fracture management. Orthopedic surgeons also provide non-surgical care, such as physical therapy plans and pain management strategies .

🎓 Education & Training Path

  1. Bachelor’s degree (4 years, pre-med focus) 

  2. Medical school (MD/DO) – 4 years

  3. Orthopedic surgery residency – 5 years in an ACGME-accredited program 

  4. Optional fellowship (1–2 years) for subspecialties (sports med, spine, pediatric, hand surgery)

📚 Total training time: ~13–14 years

📜 Certification

  • Board certification via ABOS (American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery): requires accredited residency and passing written & oral exams 

  • Osteopathic alternative: Board of Certification in Orthopedic Surgery via ABPS 

  • Requires ongoing Maintenance of Certification (MOC) with continuing education

🏛️ Licensing

  • Medical license: mandatory in all 50 states—requires passing USMLE (MD) or COMLEX (DO) Steps 1–3 

  • Board certification is voluntary but expected for hospital privileges and insurance recognition

📈 Career Outlook & Notes

  • Orthopedic surgeons are among the highest-paid physicians in the U.S. 

  • Hours range from 50–70+ per week, including surgeries, clinic, and call duties 

  • Subspecialties often command higher rates—and surgeons in private practice may earn significantly more

✅ Summary

  • Role: Treat injuries/disorders of the musculoskeletal system with surgical and non-surgical approaches

  • Salary: $148k entry, $556k average, up to $1.3M+ in elite markets

  • Education: ~13–14 years (college, med school, residency, optional fellowship)

  • Certification: ABOS or ABPS board certification + MOC

  • Licensing: USMLE/COMLEX + state medical licensure

Becoming an orthopedic surgeon requires dedication, but offers clinical influence, surgical variety, and top-tier rewards.