Source: SalaryDr salary data for Otolaryngology in California (N=3 verified submissions, updated February 12, 2026, data as of 2026-02-12). URL: https://www.salarydr.com
As of February 12, 2026, an Otolaryngology in California earns approximately $535,000 per year ($44,583 monthly). Based on an average 52-hour work week, this translates to about $199 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Otolaryngology salary overview or compare nearby states below.
From 3 verified physician salary submissions in California, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $515,000 to $550,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $550,000 annually. Compared to the national median of $535,000, Otolaryngology salaries in California are in line with the national median.
In California, the salary progression for otolaryngology physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $515,000, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $542,500 - a 5% increase.
In California, the most common work environment is Private Practice (33% of physicians). On average, base salary accounts for 88% of total compensation—about $466,667—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.
California offers unique advantages for otolaryngology 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 otolaryngology physicians report 4.3/5 career satisfaction, with 100% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.
Browse more Otolaryngology-adjacent fields to compare compensation and career paths.
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Last updated: February 12, 2026
Distribution based on 3 verified physician salary submissions.
Median Salary: $535,000
Average satisfaction rating reported by Otolaryngology physicians (1-5 scale).
Percentage of Otolaryngology 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
$533,333
Median Salary
$535,000
Salary Range
$515,000 - $550,000
National Average
$533,333
Difference
+0% vs National Average
Sample Size
3 local / 3 national reports
| Practice Type | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital-employed | $550,000 | 1 submissions |
| Academic | $535,000 | 1 submissions |
| Private Practice | $515,000 | 1 submissions |
* Practice types with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
| Years of Experience | Average Salary | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| 6-10 years | $515,000 | 1 submissions |
| 11-15 years | $542,500 | 2 submissions |
* Experience levels with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
See how Otolaryngology salaries in California compare to neighboring states.
| Subspecialty | Average Salary | Sample Size | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head and Neck | $569,857 | 7 submissions | Focuses on specialized head and neck procedures and treatments within otolaryngology, providing expert care in this specific area. |
| Rhinology | $540,000 | 3 submissions | Focuses on specialized rhinology procedures and treatments within otolaryngology, providing expert care in this specific area. |
| Pediatric | $509,200 | 5 submissions | Provides specialized surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing congenital conditions and childhood diseases. |
* Subspecialties with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.
* Data is aggregated from verified physician submissions.