Urologist Salaries and Specialties
Choosing a medical specialty involves balancing passion with practicality. For those drawn to the surgical and medical management of the urinary tract, urology offers a stimulating clinical environment and a robust financial future.
If you are a resident mapping out your future or a practicing physician considering a change, understanding the current compensation landscape is essential. The demand for specialized care is rising, and the market for urology jobs is responding with competitive incentives. This guide breaks down what you can expect regarding compensation and career trajectory in the coming years.
How Much Do Urologists Make?
The compensation for a urologist is significant, reflecting the extensive training and high demand for this surgical subspecialty. Recent data indicates a positive trend for both starting offers and established averages.
According to the 2025 Review of Physician and Advanced Practitioner Recruiting Incentives, the starting salary for urology is sitting at $330,000. This figure represents the baseline for new physicians entering the field, often before production bonuses or benefits packages are applied.
Looking slightly further ahead, the earning potential increases as tenure builds. Data from Salary.com projects that in 2026, the average salary for a urologist in the United States will be approximately $400,000.
These figures highlight a lucrative career path, but it is important to remember that a single number rarely tells the whole story. Several variables can shift your actual take-home pay significantly.
Factors influencing urology salaries
While national averages provide a benchmark, your specific offer will depend on distinct factors.
- Geographic Location: Where you practice matters. For example, Salary.com notes that urologists in San Jose, California, earn significantly more than the national average, with salaries topping $505,000. High cost-of-living areas often adjust pay rates upward to attract top talent.
- Experience Level: An entry-level urologist (less than 1 year of experience) earns less than a senior-level physician with 5-8 years of practice. As you build your patient base and surgical volume, your value to a hospital system or practice increases.
- Employment Model: There is a difference between permanent jobs and locum tenens jobs. Permanent roles often come with stability and benefits, while locum tenens positions can offer higher hourly rates and flexibility for those willing to travel.
The Growing Demand for Urology Physician Jobs
The career outlook for urology is strong. As the population ages, the prevalence of urological conditions such as prostate issues and kidney stones increases naturally. This demographic shift ensures a steady stream of patients and high job security for specialists in this field.
Hospitals and clinics are actively competing for talent, which often leads to better signing bonuses and relocation packages. Whether you are looking for physician jobs in a private practice, a large academic medical center, or in a rural community, the need for skilled urologists is nationwide.
Taking the Next Step in Your Career
The financial outlook for urology is promising, with competitive starting salaries in 2025 and rising averages projected for 2026. However, finding the right role goes beyond just the paycheck. It requires finding a facility that supports your clinical interests and offers the work-life balance you need.
Whether you are seeking the stability of a permanent placement or the adventure of locum tenens work, the market is full of opportunities for skilled specialists.
If you are ready to explore the next step in your career, AMN Healthcare can connect you with great roles nationwide.
