Source: SalaryDr salary data for General Surgery in California (N=21 verified submissions, updated February 10, 2026, data as of 2026-02-10). URL: https://www.salarydr.com
As of February 10, 2026, a General Surgeon in California earns approximately $610,000 per year ($50,833 monthly). Based on an average 57-hour work week, this translates to about $194 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the General Surgeon salary overview or compare nearby states below.
From 21 verified physician salary submissions in California, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $495,000 to $610,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $750,000 annually. Compared to the national median of $610,000, General Surgeon salaries in California are in line with the national median.
In California, the salary progression for general surgeon physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $542,143, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $588,571 - a 9% increase.
In California, the most common work environment is Hospital Employed (48% of physicians). On average, base salary accounts for 83% of total compensation—about $478,143—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.
California offers unique advantages for general surgeon physicians, including high demand in major metropolitan areas and competitive compensation packages. The cost of living in California is higher than the national average but offset by higher salaries.
Local general surgeon physicians report 4.5/5 career satisfaction, with 81% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.
Browse more General Surgeon-adjacent fields to compare compensation and career paths.
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Last updated: February 10, 2026
Distribution based on 21 verified physician salary submissions.
Median Salary: $610,000
Average satisfaction rating reported by General Surgery physicians (1-5 scale).
Percentage of General Surgery physicians who would choose this specialty again.
Physicians cite the variety of cases and patient relationships as most rewarding aspects of this specialty.
On-call demands, administrative burden, and work-life balance are cited as the top challenges.
Average Salary
$573,095
Median Salary
$610,000
Salary Range
$495,000 - $610,000
National Average
$573,095
Difference
+0% vs National Average
Sample Size
21 local / 21 national reports
| Practice Type | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Private Practice | $614,444 | 9 submissions |
| Hospital-employed | $561,000 | 10 submissions |
* Practice types with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
Compare salary data across different practice settings for General Surgery physicians in California:
| Years of Experience | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 years | $400,000 | 1 submissions |
| 3-5 years | $462,500 | 2 submissions |
| 6-10 years | $573,333 | 3 submissions |
| 11-15 years | $599,333 | 15 submissions |
* Experience levels with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
Browse city-level salary data for general surgeon physicians in California. Click any city to see detailed compensation information for that location.
See how General Surgery salaries in California compare to neighboring states.
| Subspecialty | Average Salary | Sample Size | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trauma | $649,650 | 20 submissions | Provides emergency surgical care for critically injured patients, specializing in acute care surgery and critical care management. Trauma surgeons work in Level I and II trauma centers. |
| Vascular | $607,739 | 8 submissions | Treats diseases of blood vessels, including complex arterial reconstructions, aneurysm repairs, and minimally invasive endovascular procedures. |
| Breast | $594,327 | 13 submissions | Specializes in comprehensive breast care, including cancer surgery, oncoplastic techniques, and collaboration with plastic surgery for reconstruction. |
| Surgical Oncology | $578,333 | 6 submissions | Specializes in the surgical management of complex cancers, working within multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive cancer care. |
| Colorectal | $558,740 | 22 submissions | Focuses on disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus, performing both routine and complex procedures for cancer, IBD, and functional disorders. |
| Minimally Invasive | $530,333 | 15 submissions | Utilizes advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques to perform surgeries through tiny incisions, reducing recovery time and complications. |
* Subspecialties with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
* Data is aggregated from verified physician submissions.
Average Salary: $400,000
Based on 150 reports
Average Salary: $380,000
Based on 120 reports
Average Salary: $350,000
Based on 100 reports
Average Salary: $340,000
Based on 90 reports
Average Salary: $360,000
Based on 80 reports
Average Salary: $370,000
Based on 70 reports
* Showing locations with the most reported salaries.
* Some locations may be omitted if they have fewer than 3 reports.
Local market conditions, cost of living, and opportunities for General Surgery physicians in California.
Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer General Surgery positions with research opportunities.
Established and startup practices seeking General Surgery physicians with partnership potential.
High-demand temporary positions offering flexibility and competitive hourly rates.
Compare General Surgery salaries across different locations and practice settings.
Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in General Surgery in California.
Data Source: All salary information is based on verified submissions from practicing physicians and is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions.
Complete guide for physicians looking to transition careers or relocate to General Surgery in California.
Evaluate your current specialty, compensation, job satisfaction, and career goals. Identify specific reasons for wanting to transition and what you hope to achieve.
Investigate General Surgery opportunities in California, including salary ranges, practice settings, required qualifications, and market demand.
Learn more →Compare your current qualifications with requirements for your target role. Identify any additional training, certifications, or experience needed for a successful transition.
Connect with General Surgery physicians in California through medical associations, conferences, and professional networks. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights.
Create a timeline for your transition including any required training, licensing requirements, financial planning for potential income changes, and family considerations.
Begin applying for positions, complete any required training, and manage the logistics of your career change including contract negotiations and relocation if necessary.
Professional Tip: This guide provides general recommendations. Always consult with career advisors, mentors, and legal professionals for personalized advice specific to your situation.