Emergency Medicine Physicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 590 emergency medicine physicians, and they earn a median of $73,250/year. The range runs from starting around $68K. Kentucky pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level emergency medicine physicians start around $68K. The gap between that and the median ($73K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $239K | 310 |
| Oklahoma | $179K | 150 |
| Alaska | $168K | 170 |
| California | $158K | N/A |
| Georgia | $140K | 3,290 |
| Utah | $138K | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a emergency medicine physicians make?▼
The median emergency medicine physicians salary in the United States is $73,250 per year ($35/hour). Entry-level positions start around $67,780, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a emergency medicine physicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for emergency medicine physicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for emergency medicine physicians.
What are the highest paying states for emergency medicine physicians?▼
The highest paying states for emergency medicine physicians are Kentucky ($239,100), Oklahoma ($178,900), Alaska ($168,040), California ($158,100), Georgia ($139,990). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.