Source: SalaryDr salary data for cardiology (N=multiple verified submissions, updated February 11, 2026, data as of 2026-02-11). URL: https://www.salarydr.com
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Data-driven answers for cardiology
The median physician salary is $0 in 2026 in cardiology, based on 0 verified salary submissions on SalaryDr. The average physician salary is $0, with compensation varying significantly based on specialty, location, experience, and practice setting.
Private practice physicians typically earn 15-30% more than hospital-employed counterparts, though with greater income variability and business risk. Based on SalaryDr data, practice owners and partners often reach the top 10% of earners in their specialty. However, employed positions offer more predictable income, benefits, and less administrative burden.
New physicians starting their careers earn $250,000-$350,000 in their first year, depending on specialty and location. Many employers offer signing bonuses of $20,000-$50,000+, relocation assistance, and loan repayment programs. Salaries increase significantly within the first 3-5 years of practice.
1099/locums physicians earn higher gross pay (often 20-40% more per day) but must pay self-employment tax, purchase their own benefits, and manage malpractice tail coverage. W-2 employees receive lower gross pay but benefit from employer-paid taxes, health insurance, retirement matching, and PTO. The net advantage depends on individual circumstances and hours worked.
A competitive RVU rate depends on specialty, with most physicians earning $45-$65 per work RVU (wRVU). Primary care typically sees $50-$60/wRVU, while surgical specialties may see $35-$55/wRVU with higher volume. The total RVU value includes your base guarantee, so compare total compensation per wRVU rather than bonus rate alone.
A physician earning $0 gross typically takes home $0-$0 after federal taxes, state taxes (varies 0-13%), and deductions. High-income strategies like maximizing 401(k), HSA, backdoor Roth IRA, and practice-specific deductions can improve take-home significantly.
SalaryDr salary data comes from 0 anonymous submissions from verified physicians across the United States. Each submission includes total compensation, base salary, bonuses, specialty, location, practice setting, and years of experience. Data is updated in real-time and outliers are handled statistically to ensure accuracy.
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