Podiatrists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 9,520 podiatrists, and they earn a median of $152,800/year. The range runs from starting around $58K. South Dakota pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level podiatrists start around $58K. The gap between that and the median ($153K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $234K | 30 |
| Washington | $228K | 200 |
| New Mexico | $227K | 60 |
| Minnesota | $224K | 150 |
| North Carolina | $221K | 270 |
| Nevada | $217K | 40 |
| Tennessee | $213K | 80 |
| New Hampshire | $211K | N/A |
| Connecticut | $208K | 130 |
| Kentucky | $199K | 60 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a podiatrists make?▼
The median podiatrists salary in the United States is $152,800 per year ($73/hour). Entry-level positions start around $57,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a podiatrists?▼
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 podiatrists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for podiatrists.
What are the highest paying states for podiatrists?▼
The highest paying states for podiatrists are South Dakota ($234,480), Washington ($228,170), New Mexico ($227,130), Minnesota ($224,280), North Carolina ($221,370). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.