Source: SalaryDr satisfaction data for Anesthesiology (N=155 verified submissions, updated September 18, 2026, data as of 2026-09-18). URL: https://www.salarydr.com
91% of anesthesiologists would choose their specialty again, with an average satisfaction of 3.9/5 and median salary of $535,000, based on 155 verified physician submissions on SalaryDr.
$535,000
$565,650
$470,000
$625,000
Based on 155 physician responses (1 = very dissatisfied, 5 = very satisfied)
138 of 152 respondents would choose anesthesiology again
Based on 155 physician responses (bar scaled to 80 hrs/week)
Anonymized responses from anesthesiologists about their career and work-life balance.
“I'm in Chicago, IL. Locums/Independent contractor providing anesthesia and interventional pain services for several hospitals. For the days I work, the hospital has the option to utilize me in any way between pain and anesthesia. For example, I find out the day before that I am in the pain clinic. Or another day they may place me doing OBGYN anesthesia or supervising CRNAS. I do not have the choice. The one thing I do not like is getting follow up calls and questions about injections and medication refills on my free time for which i'm usually not paid. ”
On career & specialty — Verified Anesthesiologist
“Eventually I would like better work/life balance. However, right now I am choosing to work hard and get ahead with my savings and investments.”
On career & specialty — Verified Anesthesiologist
“The scope of practice, ability to treat others, work with multiple different specialties within the same day, leadership opportunities, academic opportunities”
On career & specialty — Verified Anesthesiologist
“Better work life balance”
On career & specialty — Verified Anesthesiologist
“Increased vacation time”
On career & specialty — Verified Anesthesiologist
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