Internal Medicine vs General Surgery: Salary Comparison (2026)
Compare Internal Medicine and General Surgery compensation across salary, lifestyle, and career metrics. See how Internist salaries stack up against General Surgeon pay using verified physician data on SalaryDr.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Internal Medicine | General Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Training Length | 3-year residency | 5-year residency |
| Practitioner Title | Internist | General Surgeon |
| Live Salary Data | View Internal Medicine salary → | View General Surgery 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
- Internal Medicine: 3-year residency
- General Surgery: 5-year residency
Practice Setting
Both Internal Medicine and General Surgery offer diverse practice settings including academic medical centers, private practice, and hospital employment. Compensation varies significantly by setting.
Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance
Internal Medicine
Variable depending on practice type. Outpatient tends to be more predictable; hospitalists work shift-based schedules.
General Surgery
Demanding schedule with significant call responsibilities. Improving with subspecialization.
Career Considerations
Job Market Outlook
Both Internal Medicine and General Surgery 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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