Medical compensation in California — Median $730,000 (n=15). Typical hours: 55/wk; Satisfaction 3.9/5.
As of December 7, 2025, an Orthopedic Surgeon in California earns approximately $730,000 per year ($60,833 monthly). Based on an average 55-hour work week, this translates to about $241 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Orthopedic Surgeon salary overview or compare nearby states below.
From 15 verified physician salary submissions in California, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $600,000 to $810,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $900,000 annually. Compared to the national median of $730,000, Orthopedic Surgeon salaries in California are in line with the national median.
In California, the salary progression for orthopedic surgeon physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $611,429, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $754,125 - a 23% increase.
On average, base salary accounts for 91% of total compensation—about $625,800—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.
California offers unique advantages for orthopedic 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 orthopedic surgeon physicians report 3.9/5 career satisfaction, with 80% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.
Surgical specialists often work long but rewarding hours
Call schedules vary significantly by practice setting
Technical expertise provides job satisfaction
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Our salary data is based on anonymous submissions from practicing physicians across the United States. We verify and clean the data to ensure accuracy and remove outliers.
Last updated: December 7, 2025
Distribution based on 15 verified physician salary submissions.
Median Salary: $730,000
Average satisfaction rating reported by Orthopedic Surgery physicians (1-5 scale).
Percentage of Orthopedic 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
$687,533
Median Salary
$730,000
Salary Range
$600,000 - $810,000
National Average
$687,533
Difference
+0% vs National Average
Sample Size
15 local / 15 national reports
| Practice Type | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Private Practice | $801,571 | 7 submissions |
| Hospital-employed | $682,400 | 5 submissions |
| Academic | $430,000 | 3 submissions |
* Practice types with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
| Years of Experience | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 years | $395,000 | 2 submissions |
| 3-5 years | $683,333 | 3 submissions |
| 6-10 years | $710,000 | 4 submissions |
| 11-15 years | $801,250 | 4 submissions |
| 16+ years | $714,000 | 2 submissions |
* Experience levels with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
Browse city-level salary data for orthopedic surgeon physicians in California. Click any city to see detailed compensation information for that location.
See how Orthopedic Surgery salaries in California compare to neighboring states.
| Subspecialty | Average Salary | Sample Size | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spine | $1,283,667 | 9 submissions | Addresses complex spinal disorders through both surgical and non-surgical means, including minimally invasive spine surgery. |
| Joint | $1,042,162 | 13 submissions | Focuses on specialized joint procedures and treatments within orthopedic surgery, providing expert care in this specific area. |
| Sports | $946,000 | 5 submissions | Focuses on specialized sports procedures and treatments within orthopedic surgery, providing expert care in this specific area. |
| Hand | $815,000 | 9 submissions | Specializes in intricate surgery of the hand, wrist, and upper extremity, including microsurgery and complex reconstruction. |
| Trauma | $797,000 | 5 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. |
| Foot and Ankle | $747,667 | 12 submissions | Focuses on specialized foot and ankle procedures and treatments within orthopedic surgery, providing expert care in this specific area. |
| Sports Medicine | $640,375 | 12 submissions | Treats athletic injuries and conditions, focusing on arthroscopic procedures and accelerated rehabilitation protocols. |
* 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 Orthopedic Surgery physicians in California.
Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer Orthopedic Surgery positions with research opportunities.
Established and startup practices seeking Orthopedic Surgery physicians with partnership potential.
High-demand temporary positions offering flexibility and competitive hourly rates.
Compare Orthopedic Surgery salaries across different locations and practice settings.
Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Orthopedic 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 Orthopedic 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 Orthopedic 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 Orthopedic 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.