Neurology vs Psychiatry: Salary Comparison (2026)
Compare Neurology and Psychiatry compensation across salary, lifestyle, and career metrics. See how Neurologist salaries stack up against Psychiatrist pay using verified physician data on SalaryDr.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Neurology | Psychiatry |
|---|---|---|
| Training Length | 4-year residency | 4-year residency |
| Practitioner Title | Neurologist | Psychiatrist |
| Live Salary Data | View Neurology salary → | View Psychiatry 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
- Neurology: 4-year residency
- Psychiatry: 4-year residency
Practice Setting
Both Neurology and Psychiatry offer diverse practice settings including academic medical centers, private practice, and hospital employment. Compensation varies significantly by setting.
Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance
Neurology
Moderate lifestyle. Stroke call can be demanding but improving with teleneurology.
Psychiatry
Excellent lifestyle with predictable hours, minimal call, and growing telehealth opportunities.
Career Considerations
Job Market Outlook
Both Neurology and Psychiatry 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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