Actuaries vs. Anesthesiologists: Who Earns More?
Anesthesiologists out-earn Actuaries by $261K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Actuaries land at $130,000 and Anesthesiologists at $391,490. The education gap is real: actuary programs typically require bachelor's degree, while anesthesiologist programs require doctoral or professional degree. Top-paying state for Actuaries is Connecticut ($166,800); for Anesthesiologists it's Washington ($499,990).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Actuaries median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Actuaries or Anesthesiologists?
Anesthesiologists earn more nationally. The median is $130,000 for Actuaries versus $391,490 for Anesthesiologists, a difference of $261K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Actuaries or Anesthesiologists?
Actuaries has the better 10-year outlook at 21.8% projected growth, compared to 3.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Actuaries or Anesthesiologists?
Actuaries typically requires bachelor's degree. Anesthesiologists requires doctoral or professional degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Actuaries get paid the most?
Connecticut is the top-paying state for Actuaries at $166,800/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Actuaries vs. Anesthesiologists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Connecticut, Actuaries earn $166,800 vs. $481,820 for Anesthesiologists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.