Dermatology vs Ophthalmology: Salary Comparison (2026)
Compare Dermatology and Ophthalmology compensation across salary, lifestyle, and career metrics. See how Dermatologist salaries stack up against Ophthalmologist pay using verified physician data on SalaryDr.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dermatology | Ophthalmology |
|---|---|---|
| Training Length | 4-year residency (1yr internship + 3yr derm) | 4-year residency (1yr internship + 3yr ophtho) |
| Practitioner Title | Dermatologist | Ophthalmologist |
| Live Salary Data | View Dermatology salary → | View Ophthalmology salary → |
| Lifestyle Rating | See details below | See details below |
Salary figures are updated in real-time on each specialty page from verified physician submissions.
Key Differences
Training Path
- Dermatology: 4-year residency (1yr internship + 3yr derm)
- Ophthalmology: 4-year residency (1yr internship + 3yr ophtho)
Practice Setting
Both Dermatology and Ophthalmology offer diverse practice settings including academic medical centers, private practice, and hospital employment. Compensation varies significantly by setting.
Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance
Dermatology
Outstanding lifestyle with predictable office hours, minimal call, and minimal emergencies.
Ophthalmology
Very good lifestyle with mostly clinic-based work and limited call.
Career Considerations
Job Market Outlook
Both Dermatology and Ophthalmology continue to see strong demand driven by an aging population and expanding healthcare access. Geographic demand varies; rural and underserved areas often offer higher compensation to attract specialists.
Compensation Growth Trajectory
Physician salaries in both specialties typically increase with experience, with the largest jumps in the first 5-10 years post-training. Partnership or ownership in private practice can meaningfully accelerate earnings.
Subspecialization Opportunities
Both specialties offer fellowship pathways that can further differentiate earning potential and lifestyle. Compare detailed salary data for each specialty to see how subspecialties affect pay.
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