Orthopedic PA Salary Guide

Do you know how much orthopedic physician assistants (PAs) make? And how does the salary for orthopedic PAs compare across states and between perm and temp work? Let’s get started!

Explore our orthopedic PA salary guide to discover:

  • Orthopedic PA Salary
  • PA Salary by State
  • How Do Orthopedic PA Salaries Compare Against Other PA Specialties?
  • How Much Will Orthopedic PAs Make in 2024?

Looking for orthopedic PA jobs? Check out our open orthopedic PA assignments nationwide.

NP salary guide

How Much Do Orthopedic PAs Make?

While the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics does not report on orthopedic PAs specifically, the  average annual PA salary is $126,010 per year in the U.S. However, PAs can make a total of $134,000 per year, according to Medscape’s 2023 physician assistant compensation report.  This provides valuable insight into the possible annual compensation for orthopedic PAs. 

Medscape also reports that 55% of PAs experienced an increase in gross income from last year, making this a lucrative profession. Also, the United States Bureau of Statistics reports a 27% increase in PA jobs within the next decade, which is roughly 9 times than the national average.

How Much Do Locum Tenens Orthopedic PAs Make?

Locum tenens orthopedic PAs can make upwards of $112 per hour on average, however, there are many factors that impact rates including location, years of experience, and the level of demand.

If you were to extrapolate that rate over a year (at 40 hours per week), the average locum salary comes out to around $232,960

That means locum tenens orthopedic PAs can make up to 84% more than the average provider. However, making direct salary comparisons can be complicated. While perm orthopedic PAs are more likely to be salaried, locum tenens orthopedic PAs are independent contractors earning an hourly rate, which can vary based on which assignments they take in a year. 

Furthermore, because locum tenens orthopedic PAs are paid by the hour, the hours they work are directly reflected in their pay, while a salaried orthopedic PAs additional hours may not be reflected in their salary.

Finally, paid time off and insurance may be reflected in the perm orthopedic PAs salary structure, but locum tenens providers do have options when it comes to health insurance.

Cardiologist Salary by State

The most recent state breakdown of PA salaries comes from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, though the BLS was not able to collect enough data for all 50 states. While the BLS did not provide for orthopedic  PAs specifically, the top 5 highest paying states for PA salaries include:

  • Alaska (PA Salary of $131,340- $145,390) 
  • California (PA Salary of $131,340- $145,390) 
  • Connecticut (PA Salary of $131,340- $145,390) 
  • Nevada (PA Salary of $131,340- $145,390) 
  • Washington (PA Salary of $131,340- $145,390)

How Do Orthopedic PA Salaries Compare Against Other PA Specialties?

The American Associates of Physician Associates did not feature orthopedic PAs in their highest paying specialties report, however pediatric PA salaries are comparable to specialized features on the list. The top five highest earning specialties (cardiovascular/cardiothoracic surgery, dermatology, emergency medicine, occupational, medicine, and critical care) earned up to $152,000 in annual compensation.  

How Much Will Orthopedic PAs Make in 2024?

The average PA salary increased by 4% from 2022 to 2023. Based on this data, pediatric PAs can expect to make $139,360 in annual compensation in 2024. Also, Medscape reports that 59% of PAs had an increase in their annual salaries from the previous year, indicating that orthopedic PA salaries will continue to rise in the future. 

Find Your Next Orthopedic PA Job with Barton

Barton coordinates your job search from start to finish!

1

TALK WITH A REP

We’ll schedule a phone consultation with a Barton Associates team member to discuss your interests, goals, and work history in order to get a sense of what you’re looking for in your next job.

Your Barton team will then go to work, compiling a list of open jobs in our extensive network that match your interests and skill set.

2

REVIEW YOUR OPTIONS

Once you’ve had a chance to evaluate your list of opportunities, your Barton rep will submit your information to facility you want to take an assignment at.

If there’s a match, we’ll work with the client manager on next steps.

3

START YOUR JOB!

Don’t worry! Barton Associates will handle licensing, credentialing, and travel arrangements before you arrive.

Your Barton rep will also work with your new facility to ensure you’re set up and ready to go on day one.

LEARN MORE

Complete the following form to learn more about how we can help you find the perfect opportunity
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