Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedic Surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system — bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.
Getting Started
How to Become a Orthopedic Surgeon
At 13 years to get started, this takes longer than the 10.6 years average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Doctoral Degree (typically 13 years) at an estimated cost of $250k–$375k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for orthopedic surgeon practice.
Begin Working
Orthopedic Surgeon earn a median salary of $451k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Orthopedic Surgeon Do?
Orthopedic Surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system — bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They treat conditions ranging from traumatic fractures and sports injuries to degenerative diseases like arthritis. Orthopedic surgery is among the highest-paid medical specialties, driven by high surgical volumes and aging demographics.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Orthopedic Surgeon Make?
At $451k/yr, orthopedic surgeon earn more than most Doctoral Degree-level careers, where the average is $253k/yr.
$451k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Orthopedic Surgeon | $451k/yr |
| Home Health Aide | $34k/yr |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | $39k/yr |
| Physician Assistant | $130k/yr |
| General Surgeon | $355k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Orthopedic Surgeon Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 3% growth over the next decade, roughly in line with the 4.8% average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
10-Year Growth
3%
About as fast as average
Current Employment
20k
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Significant Risk
Orthopedic Surgeon roles face significant AI automation risk — below average among Doctoral Degree-level careers. Several core tasks could potentially be automated or substantially changed by AI. Core responsibilities like state licensing requirements require human presence and judgment that AI cannot replicate.
Why It's Safe
- +Performing general physical activities
- +Handling and moving objects
- +Repairing and maintaining mechanical equipment
- +Repairing and maintaining electronic equipment
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
What Could Be Automated
- −Getting information
- −Monitoring processes, materials, or surroundings
- −Processing information
- −Evaluating information to determine compliance with standards
- −Analyzing data or information
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
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Sources
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12