Anesthesiology is one of the highest-paying physician specialties in the U.S., offering a strong financial foundation alongside a range of career paths. But even with high six-figure salaries, many Anesthesiologists are asking an important question: Am I earning what I could be?

In a field known for precision and complexity, compensation is often just as nuanced. Whether you're weighing job offers, negotiating contracts, or simply exploring your options, understanding the salary landscape is the first step toward maximizing your earnings—and your career satisfaction.

Average Salary for Anesthesiologists in 2025

National estimates show that most Anesthesiologists earn between $373,000 and $488,000 annually, depending on experience, subspecialty, and geographic location. Some reports place the average salary as high as $460,000, with top earners exceeding $700,000, particularly in high-demand or highly specialized roles.

But those numbers only tell part of the story. While base compensation remains strong, the true earning potential varies significantly depending on how and where you choose to practice.

What Affects an Anesthesiologist’s Salary?

Experience and Career Stage

As with most physician roles, salary tends to increase with years in practice—but growth may plateau sooner than expected. Many mid-career Anesthesiologists explore new ways to increase their income, from moonlighting to taking on leadership or teaching roles.

Subspecialty Focus

Some subspecialties command higher rates due to skill intensity and demand. These include:

• Cardiothoracic Anesthesia
• Pediatric Anesthesia
• Critical Care Medicine
• Pain Management
• Obstetric Anesthesia

Fellowship-trained providers in these areas often see elevated compensation, particularly when willing to cover nights, weekends, or underserved regions.

Geographic Variation

Pay can vary widely depending on cost of living, malpractice climate, and regional demand. States with provider shortages and fewer training programs tend to offer more competitive salaries—especially for those open to relocating or traveling temporarily.

Practice Environment

Anesthesiologists employed by hospitals may receive predictable pay and benefits, while those in private practice, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), or outpatient clinics may see more variability—but also more upside through bonuses, incentives, or equity models.

The Rise of Side Gigs and Flexible Work Models

More physicians than ever are supplementing their income through external work, including:

• Weekend moonlighting/locum tenens assignments
• Telemedicine consults
• Speaking, teaching, or mentoring

These opportunities allow you to control your schedule while boosting your annual income—without committing to a full career shift.

Locum Tenens as a High-Earning Option

If you're unfamiliar with locum tenens, think of it as a flexible, contract-based alternative to traditional roles. Locum Anesthesiologists temporarily fill staffing gaps in hospitals, surgery centers, or clinics across the country.

Here's why it’s worth considering:

• Hourly rates reflect actual time worked—no uncompensated overtime
• Assignment-based structure allows for schedule control and time off between gigs
• Many providers use locums to moonlight or transition out of full-time practice

While Caliber does not quote specific rates, it’s not uncommon for locum tenens anesthesiology assignments to exceed the national average on an hourly basis. That means even part-time or short-term roles can make a real impact on your income.

Is It Time to Reassess Your Earning Strategy?

Even in a top-paying specialty like anesthesiology, there’s always room to rethink how—and how much—you earn.

Ask yourself:

• Are you being compensated fairly for your skills, availability, and training?
• Are you getting paid for all the hours you work?
• Could flexible or supplemental options give you more freedom or financial security?

Locum tenens isn’t just for physicians in transition. It’s also for those who want to protect their time, earn more per hour, and explore new settings without long-term risk.

Your Career, Your Terms

At Caliber, we help Anesthesiologists align their income goals with flexible, fulfilling work. Whether you're looking for a few extra shifts a month or exploring a new direction entirely, we’re here to help you evaluate your options—with full transparency and zero pressure. Because how much you make matters. But so does how you're treated—and how your time is valued.