Salary in the USA
Annual earnings for endocrinologists in the U.S. vary widely depending on experience, location, and practice setting:
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Indeed reports an average base salary of $295,364, with a range from $217,791 to $400,568 .
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ZipRecruiter places the U.S. average at $269,186, with typical salaries spanning $213,000 (25th percentile) to $350,000 (75th); top earners may reach $398,500+.
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PayScale lists the average base pay at $247,643, with a range of $158k to $315k
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Payscale’s full compensation data adds bonuses, giving total pay roughly $155k - $345k, with the median base around $158k
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Salary.com notes an average of $268,924 as of July 2025
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Jobted suggests a lower range: $152,330 - $293,490, averaging about $203,440
What Is an Endocrinologist and What Do They Do?
An endocrinologist is a medical specialist focused on the endocrine system—the network of glands that secrete hormones regulating metabolism, growth, reproduction, and more. Adult endocrinologists diagnose and treat conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, adrenal dysfunction, pituitary disorders, infertility, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers .
Endocrinologists are heavily reliant on lab tests, imaging, and sometimes biopsies or surgical consultation to assess hormone levels, evaluate gland function, and guide long-term treatment plans .
Education Required
The path to specializing in endocrinology typically spans 13–15 years:
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Bachelor’s degree (4 years): Pre-med with biology, chemistry, physics
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Medical school (MD or DO, 4 years): Basic sciences followed by clinical rotations.
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Residency in internal medicine (3 years)
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Fellowship in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism (2–3 years)
Certification & Licensing
To practice and specialize legally, endocrinologists must:
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Pass USMLE Steps 1–3 (or COMLEX for DOs) for initial licensing
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Obtain a medical license in their practicing state (renewed every 7–10 years)
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Complete an ABIM- or AOBIM-accredited fellowship
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Become board certified in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism by passing the ABIM/AOBIM exam
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Maintain certification via CME/MOC credits through ABIM or endocrinology societies
Licensing
All states mandate a valid, unrestricted medical license to practice. Endocrinologists must complete USMLE or COMLEX, followed by state board approval .
Why the Variation?
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Geographic differences: Some states like California and Alaska pay ~20–25% above the national average .
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Practice type: Private practice, academic, government roles differ in compensation.
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Experience and subspecialties (e.g., pediatric, reproductive) impact pay
Final Thoughts
Becoming an endocrinologist demands dedication: 13–15 years of training, rigorous licensing and certification, and lifelong learning. The financial rewards are substantial—median salaries around $250k–$300k, with top earners surpassing $400k—but match the high level of responsibility and expertise.