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Average Salary of a Doctor in Canada
Are you considering a career as a doctor in Canada? Becoming a physician requires years of education and training, but it’s often regarded as one of the most lucrative and rewarding professions. If you’re wondering, "What is the average salary of a doctor in Canada?", this guide will provide a detailed breakdown.
How Much Do Doctors Earn in Canada?
The average salary of a doctor in Canada varies based on factors such as specialization, location, and experience. According to the Canadian Job Bank, the median salary for medical doctors in Canada is $216,833 per year.
However, doctor salaries can range widely. A family physician earns an average of $154,729 per year, while a specialist such as a neurologist or orthopedic surgeon can earn significantly more.
Doctor Salaries by Specialization in Canada
| Specialization | Average Salary (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Family Doctor | $154,729 |
| Orthopedic Surgeon | $245,511 |
| Neurologist | $308,820 |
| Psychiatrist | $151,262 |
| Cardiologist | $194,340 |
| General Surgeon | $202,940 |
Factors That Affect a Doctor’s Salary in Canada
1. Medical Specialization
Doctors who specialize in high-stress, high-risk fields, such as surgery or neurology, tend to earn higher salaries than general practitioners.
2. Experience Level & Leadership Roles
Entry-level doctors earn less but can see significant salary increases over time. Senior doctors who take on leadership roles in hospitals or clinics often earn more.
3. Location
Salaries for doctors vary by province and city. Physicians working in Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary typically earn more than those in smaller cities or rural areas. However, doctors working in underserved regions may receive incentives or bonuses.
4. Public vs. Private Healthcare
Doctors working in the private sector or operating their own practice often earn more than those in public hospitals.
Additional Earnings for Doctors
Many doctors supplement their salaries through:
-
Teaching at universities
-
Research and development in medicine
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On-call and emergency work
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Opening a private practice
FAQ: Doctor Salaries in Canada
How much does Canada pay doctors?
The average salary of a doctor in Canada is $216,833 per year, according to the Canadian Job Bank. However, this varies based on specialization, experience, and location.
How much does MBBS earn in Canada?
An MBBS graduate in Canada typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 during their residency (Indeed). Once fully licensed, their salary can increase significantly based on their specialization and work setting.
Do doctors get paid more in Canada or the USA?
Generally, doctors in the USA earn higher salaries than in Canada. However, the cost of medical education, liability insurance, and private healthcare structures in the USA can reduce overall earnings.
Which country pays doctors the most?
Countries like Luxembourg, Switzerland, and the United States offer some of the highest salaries for doctors worldwide. However, salary levels vary based on taxation, cost of living, and healthcare system structures.
See Other Salaries in Canada
Interested in learning more about high-paying careers in Canada? Explore other salary guides for professionals across various industries.
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Qayyum Rajan, CFA
Qayyum is the CEO of Wealth Awesome, a leading Canadian personal finance publication. As a CFA charterholder with extensive experience in fintech, data science, and quantitative finance, he brings a unique analytical perspective to investing and wealth management.
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This content has been reviewed by CFA® charterholders and Certified Financial Planners (CFP®) with over a decade of experience in Canadian financial markets. All information is fact-checked against official Canadian sources and regulations.
Why these credentials matter: CFA® charterholders complete 900+ hours of rigorous study in investment analysis and ethics. CFP® professionals are held to the highest standards of financial planning competency and fiduciary duty in Canada.
⚠️ Professional Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized financial advice. While our team brings professional expertise, individual circumstances vary. For personalized guidance, consult with a qualified financial advisor, tax professional, or mortgage specialist.
