Physician Assistants (PAs) are among the highest-paid professionals in the healthcare sector, often earning six-figure salaries that can rival those of physicians in certain roles. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual Physician Assistant salary was $130,020 as of May 2023.
This marks a significant increase from previous years and reflects the strong demand for these medical providers. The PA profession is also growing rapidly – BLS projects PA employment to increase by about 28% from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing the average for all occupations. This combination of high salary and demand makes the PA career path very attractive in 2025.
Despite the generally high pay, not all PAs earn the same amount. Salaries vary widely based on a number of key factors, including medical specialty, geographic location, years of experience, practice setting, and type of employer.
Additionally, emerging trends such as locum tenens work (temporary contracting) and advanced certifications can influence a PA’s earning potential. In this updated article, we will break down the latest salary statistics from reputable sources (government data and official healthcare reports) to examine how each factor impacts PA salaries.
We will also explore the evolving landscape of PA education and career paths – highlighting new training trends, certifications, specializations, and alternative career opportunities beyond traditional clinical practice. For clarity, detailed salary data is presented in tables, and direct source links are provided for all statistics.
What Does a Physician Assistant Do?
Before diving into salary details, it’s important to understand the role of a Physician Assistant. PAs are licensed clinicians who practice medicine under the supervision or collaboration of physicians. They examine, diagnose, and treat patients in a wide variety of healthcare settings.
In practice, PAs can perform many of the same duties as doctors: they conduct physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose illnesses or injuries, develop treatment plans, perform procedures like suturing or casting, assist in surgeries, and prescribe medications. PAs often serve as primary care providers for patients, especially in settings or regions with physician shortages.
Physician Assistants work in all areas of medicine, from family practice and pediatrics to surgical subspecialties and emergency medicine. They are trained in the medical model to be versatile and collaborative. In rural or underserved communities, PAs may serve as the primary healthcare provider, working autonomously with a physician available for consultation as needed. In other environments, PAs are integral members of a healthcare team, working alongside physicians, nurses, and other professionals to deliver quality care. This flexibility in scope of practice allows PAs to fill critical gaps in the healthcare system, which in turn contributes to the strong demand and competitive salaries for the profession.
PA Education and Training
Educational Requirements
To become a PA, one must complete a rigorous education and training pathway. Currently, all states (and Washington, D.C.) require PAs to earn a graduate degree from an accredited PA program and to obtain licensure. Typically, aspiring PAs first earn a bachelor’s degree (often in a science or health-related field) and accumulate healthcare experience (for example as a medical assistant, EMT, or nurse) before applying to PA school. PA programs award a master’s degree (such as Master of Physician Assistant Studies) and usually take about 2 to 3 years of full-time postgraduate study.
These programs are accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) and include intensive classroom instruction in medical sciences and pharmacology, followed by over a year of supervised clinical rotations in various specialties.
Certification and Licensure
After graduating from an accredited program, PA students must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), to become a PA-C (Physician Assistant-Certified). Only after passing the PANCE and obtaining certification can a PA apply for state licensure to practice.
PAs must maintain their certification by completing continuing medical education (CME) requirements (100 CME hours every two years) and passing periodic recertification exams. As of 2023, NCCPA has introduced a new recertification pathway (PANRE-LA) which is a longitudinal assessment alternative to the traditional exam, reflecting a trend toward more flexible ongoing certification.
Trends in PA Programs
The PA education field is expanding rapidly to meet growing healthcare needs. As of mid-2024, there were 310 accredited PA programs in the United States, with projections of reaching 353 programs by 2027. This growth means more seats for PA students and a steady influx of new graduates into the workforce.
PA programs have also been evolving their curricula to include training in newer areas like telemedicine, healthcare technology, and interprofessional teamwork, preparing graduates for modern practice. Additionally, the diversity of PA students is increasing; for example, the percentage of newly certified PAs from underrepresented minority groups has been rising (new PAs in 2023 were 10% Hispanic, up from 7.9% in 2019), which is an encouraging trend toward a workforce that better reflects patient populations.
Specializations and Postgraduate Training
While PAs are educated as generalist medical providers, many choose to specialize in a particular area of medicine after starting practice. New postgraduate PA residencies and fellowship programs have emerged in fields like emergency medicine, surgery, oncology, and psychiatry.
These voluntary programs, often 12-18 months in length, provide intensive specialty training and can make a PA more competitive for specialized roles. According to the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, PAs who want to specialize typically pursue such additional training, and doing so can lead to expanded scope of practice and potentially higher compensation.
Advanced Certifications (CAQs)
PAs can also demonstrate expertise in a specialty by earning a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) from NCCPA. The CAQ is a voluntary credential available in several specialties such as emergency medicine, orthopedic surgery, cardiovascular & thoracic surgery, hospital medicine, nephrology, and others. In 2024, NCCPA launched a new CAQ in Obstetrics and Gynecology, and in early 2025 a CAQ in Occupational Medicine became available.
Additional CAQ areas like Geriatric Medicine are also under development. These certifications require a PA to have experience in the specialty, complete specialty-related CME, and pass a rigorous exam. While not required to practice, CAQs can enhance a PA’s credentials and potentially their salary by formally recognizing advanced specialty skills.
Emerging Degree Trends
There is also a small but growing trend of PAs pursuing doctoral-level education, such as a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) or Doctor of Physician Assistant Studies, often while practicing. These programs (usually designed for working PAs) focus on leadership, research, or advanced clinical practice. About 11.7% of newly certified PAs in 2023 indicated plans to pursue an advanced degree related to the PA profession within the next few years (up from 7.6% in 2019). Such degrees are not required for clinical practice, but PAs in academic or administrative roles may find them beneficial.
Overall, PA education in 2025 continues to emphasize flexibility and lifelong learning. PAs enter the field relatively quickly compared to physicians (usually around 6-7 years of total higher education and training post-high school, versus over a decade for doctors), and they commit to ongoing education throughout their careers. This foundation allows PAs to adapt and transition across specialties, which is one reason they enjoy strong career prospects and competitive salaries. Next, we will examine how different factors contribute to the variability in those salaries.
Key Factors Influencing PA Salaries
While the national median salary for Physician Assistants is about $130K per year in 2023, individual PA salaries can be higher or lower based on several important factors. Below, we break down the six biggest factors that impact a PA’s earning potential, using up-to-date statistics and examples:
Specialization (Field of Practice)
Medical specialty is one of the most significant determinants of a PA’s salary. PAs have the flexibility to work in dozens of specialties – ranging from general practice (family medicine, general pediatrics, general internal medicine) to surgical subspecialties (like cardiothoracic surgery or orthopedics) and other fields (emergency medicine, dermatology, psychiatry, etc.). Generally, PAs in specialty fields and surgical settings earn higher salaries than those in primary care. This is because certain specialties generate higher revenue, require highly specialized skills, and often have more intense workloads or longer hours, which employers compensate with higher pay.
According to the latest American Academy of PAs (AAPA) salary data, the lowest-paid major specialty area is primary care, with median compensation around the low $120,000s. In contrast, PAs working in specialties like surgery, emergency medicine, and dermatology typically earn above that overall median. For example, recent survey data indicates:
- Cardiovascular/Cardiothoracic Surgery PAs have a median annual compensation of about $152,500, making this one of the highest-paid PA specialties. These PAs assist in complex heart and chest surgeries and manage patients in critical care settings, which contributes to their higher pay.
- Dermatology PAs earn around $145,000 in median total compensation. Dermatology often offers high earning potential partly due to the reimbursement for procedures (like biopsies or cosmetic treatments) and the demand for skin care services. Interestingly, dermatology PAs often receive substantial bonuses or profit-sharing – one report noted their base salaries average around $112K, with additional productivity bonuses bringing the median up to $145K.
- Emergency Medicine PAs report a median annual pay of approximately $134,000 (total compensation). Emergency medicine is a high-intensity specialty with 24/7 shift work, and many EM PAs earn extra for night shifts or high patient volumes, resulting in above-average compensation.
Other top-paying specialties for PAs include Occupational Medicine ($133,120 median), Critical Care (ICU) ($133,000 median), Psychiatry ($130,000 median), and Surgical Subspecialties broadly ($130,000 median). Even Neurosurgery PAs have a median around $129K (with experienced neurosurgery PAs often earning more).
By contrast, PAs in general practice/primary care (e.g. family medicine) tend to earn closer to the lower end of the PA pay scale. Primary care PAs often have median salaries around $115,000-$125,000, depending on location and years of experience, which is a bit below the national PA median. AAPA data confirms that primary care is the lowest-paid category (around $121,680 on average in recent reports).
These differences reflect the revenue structure and demand in various fields – specialties like surgery or dermatology can bill higher rates or perform lucrative procedures, while primary care operates on thinner margins. Nonetheless, even primary care PAs earn a comfortable income well into six figures, and many choose those fields for the work-life balance or personal fulfillment despite slightly lower pay.
It’s important to note that PAs can switch specialties relatively easily over the course of their careers. This is a unique feature of the PA profession; a PA in family medicine can transition into, say, cardiology or emergency medicine with some additional training but without having to go back to school for years.
This means salary potential isn’t fixed by the first specialty a PA enters. Some PAs start in lower-paid specialties to gain experience, then move into higher-paid specialties later. Others may choose to stay in a beloved field regardless of pay. The ability to change specialties offers career flexibility – and also the opportunity to boost one’s salary by moving into a higher-paying practice area if desired. Increasingly, postgraduate fellowship programs and CAQ certifications (as discussed earlier) are available to help PAs acquire the skills needed for a new specialty and signal their expertise, which can facilitate such transitions and potentially lead to salary increases.
Location (Geographic Region)
Where a PA practices geographically can have a major impact on salary. In the United States, PA salaries vary from state to state (and even city to city) due to differences in cost of living, demand for healthcare providers, and local pay scales. Generally, states on the West Coast and Northeast, as well as Alaska, tend to offer higher average salaries for PAs, while some states in the South and Midwest offer lower salaries. These differences often correlate with cost of living; higher-paying states usually have more expensive cities or a greater demand that forces employers to offer competitive wages.
According to BLS Occupational Employment data for May 2023, the top-paying states for Physician Assistants (by average annual wage) were:
| Highest-Paying States (2023) | Average PA Salary (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Washington | $145,390 |
| California | $144,520 |
| Alaska | $144,460 |
| Connecticut | $143,280 |
| Nevada | $141,360 |
As shown above, PAs in states like Washington and California earn average salaries in the mid-$140Ks, significantly above the national average. These states have high demand for healthcare providers and higher costs of living (especially in metro areas like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles), which drives salaries up. Alaska often tops the charts as well, likely due to the remote locations and incentives needed to recruit providers there. The Northeast (e.g., Connecticut) and states like Nevada (with growing populations and healthcare needs in cities like Las Vegas) also offer top-tier PA pay.
By contrast, some states report lower average salaries for PAs. The lowest-paying states for PAs include, for example, Arkansas, where the average PA salary is around $68,270, and Mississippi (about $77,290). These figures are well below the national average, reflecting lower cost of living and different healthcare economics in those regions. Alabama is another state on the lower end, around $94,220 average. In many of these lower-paying states, the cost of living (housing, etc.) is also considerably lower, which can offset the difference in salary. Additionally, states with fewer large cities or academic medical centers might have lower salary ranges for PAs.
It’s also worth noting that urban vs. rural location plays a role. Even within the same state, a PA working in a major city can often command a higher salary than one in a rural area, due to competition among hospitals and practices for talent in urban centers. On the other hand, rural and underserved areas sometimes offer special incentives: loan repayment programs, sign-on bonuses, or retention bonuses, which add to the compensation package for PAs willing to work there. As an example, a PA who chooses to practice in a rural community might be eligible for federal or state programs that repay a portion of student loans, effectively boosting their financial situation even if the base salary is not as high as in a city.
In summary, location influences PA pay through cost of living adjustments and supply-and-demand dynamics. When considering job offers, PAs often weigh salary against the cost of living in that area. A $120,000 salary in a small Midwestern town might afford a similar or even better lifestyle than $140,000 in a big coastal city once expenses are accounted for. Still, for PAs open to relocation, moving to a high-paying state or metro area can be one strategy to increase one’s salary. As of 2025, the coastal states (West Coast and Northeast) and select others remain lucrative markets for PA employment, whereas some southern and central states offer lower wages but other benefits.
Years of Experience
Experience level is another important factor in PA compensation, though its impact tends to be most significant in the early career stages. As PAs gain experience, they typically see their earnings rise, especially during the first 5-10 years of practice. New graduate PAs generally start at a lower salary and then receive raises as they become more proficient and valuable to their employers. However, unlike some professions where experience endlessly adds to salary, PA salaries tend to plateau after a certain point in many cases.
Recent data show that newly certified PAs (essentially entry-level) have a median starting salary around $105,000 nationwide. This is a jump from a few years ago – for instance, in 2019 the median for new PAs was $95,000, showing how demand has driven up starting pay. Many PA students report expecting offers in the $100K range as they enter the job market.
From that starting point, PAs often see significant raises in the first 5 years. One analysis estimates that:
- Entry-level PAs (0-1 year of experience) usually earn around $100,000 to $110,000 per year to start. This aligns with anecdotal reports that many new grad PAs in 2024 are getting offers in the low six figures.
- Early-career PAs (1-4 years of experience) tend to move into the ~$110K+ range. By the time a PA has 5-9 years of experience (mid-career), they often earn between $115,000 and $130,000 annually, assuming they remain in the same specialty. Each year or two of experience can come with raises or the ability to negotiate a higher salary when changing jobs.
- Experienced PAs (10+ years) can earn $130,000 to $140,000 or more, especially if they have stayed in high-paying specialties. PAs with over 20 years of experience may have reached senior or supervisory positions and could see salaries in the mid to upper $140Ks, though this varies widely. In some specialties and locations, veteran PAs even earn in the $150K-$160K+ range, particularly if they take on administrative roles or have productivity bonuses.
However, many sources note that after roughly a decade of experience, PA salaries plateau or grow more slowly. Unlike some careers where seniority keeps adding pay, in medicine a PA with 15 years of experience might make only slightly more than one with 10 years of experience in the same role. For example, if a PA is earning $125K at year 10, they might be around $130K at year 15 and $135K at year 20 (barring changes in role or specialty).
The rationale is that PAs reach a competence peak where additional years don’t dramatically increase their day-to-day productivity or responsibilities, so employers tend to cap salaries at a certain level.
This is good news for newer PAs, as they can ramp up to a high earning level relatively quickly in their career. Within the first 5-7 years, a PA can often reach a salary close to the maximum they’ll earn clinically, rather than waiting decades for a top salary. On the flip side, it means highly experienced PAs may not see huge salary jumps just for remaining in practice longer – to significantly boost earnings at that stage might require switching to a higher-paying specialty, taking on administrative duties, or exploring alternate compensation (like bonus structures or productivity pay).
It’s also important to mention that many PAs get additional compensation beyond base salary – such as productivity bonuses, quality incentives, or profit-sharing – especially as they become more senior. According to AAPA, about 53% of full-time PAs received a bonus in 2023, with a median bonus of $6,000. Experienced PAs in fields like surgery or emergency medicine might get paid extra per RVU (relative value unit) or per patient seen, which can reward efficiency and experience. Thus, two PAs with the same base salary might have different total earnings if one’s experience allows them to see more patients or take on more responsibilities.
Experience boosts PA salaries quickly in early years – new PAs start around $100K and can climb into the $120K-$130K range within a decade. After that, increases are more modest, and top earners often owe their status to specialty or leadership roles rather than just years in the field. PAs should still leverage their experience during job negotiations; a PA with several years under their belt can often negotiate a higher starting salary when moving to a new job compared to a new graduate. Keeping an eye on annual salary surveys (like the AAPA Salary Report) by experience bracket can help experienced PAs ensure they are being compensated at a competitive rate for their level.
Practice Setting (Work Environment)
The type of facility or practice setting where a PA works has a notable impact on salary. PAs are employed in a range of settings: outpatient clinics, physician private practices, hospitals, academic medical centers, urgent care centers, community health clinics, etc. Each of these settings has different funding models and pay scales. For instance, a large hospital system may have set salary bands for PAs, whereas a private physician’s office might have more flexibility (but perhaps tighter budgets). Some settings like outpatient surgical centers or specialty clinics can be very lucrative, while others like academic institutions might pay less but offer other benefits (like daytime hours or tuition benefits).
BLS data by industry illustrates how practice environment influences median wages for PAs. The table below shows the median annual salaries for PAs in various work settings (industries) as of May 2023:
| Practice Setting (Industry) | Median Annual Wage (2023) |
|---|---|
| Outpatient care centers | $141,050 |
| Hospitals (state, local, private) | $134,120 |
| Offices of physicians (private practices) | $126,280 |
| Government (including VA, public hospitals) | $122,010 |
| Educational services (universities, colleges) | $115,160 |
According to BLS, PAs working in Outpatient Care Centers (which can include ambulatory surgical centers, specialized clinics, etc.) had the highest median wage, about $141K. These settings often focus on procedures or specialized services and may generate high revenue per provider, allowing them to pay PAs more.
Hospitals were the next highest, with a median of $134K. Hospitals (especially large ones) often employ many PAs in departments like surgery, internal medicine, and emergency medicine; hospital-based roles might involve critical care or surgical assistance which tend to pay well.
PAs in physicians’ offices (the typical private practice) had a median around $126K, slightly below the overall median. Offices of physicians might include family practice clinics or specialty group practices. They can be very busy but often operate on thinner margins than hospitals, which can restrain salaries somewhat.
Government-employed PAs (for example, those working in Veterans Affairs hospitals, military clinics, public health clinics, or correctional facilities) had a median salary of about $122K. Government roles often come with excellent benefits and pension plans, but the trade-off can be a slightly lower salary than the private sector.
Lastly, PAs in educational services (such as being employed by a university hospital or working in academia/training) earned a median of roughly $115K, the lowest of the listed categories. Academic institutions may compensate with other perks like research opportunities, a more predictable schedule, or prestige, but often salary budgets are lower than in private healthcare.
The original national data from a few years earlier similarly showed that outpatient/ambulatory settings paid more on average than some other settings. For instance, an outpatient surgical center or specialty clinic might offer a higher salary to attract skilled PAs, whereas a PA working for a residential care facility or community clinic might make less (though still generally over $100K).
Why do these differences exist?
It often comes down to revenue and funding. Outpatient care centers (like a surgery center or urgent care chain) bill high rates per patient or procedure and thus can afford higher salaries. Hospitals have large budgets and often need to competitively pay to staff busy emergency departments or surgical services. In contrast, a college or university employing PAs (perhaps in a student health service or as faculty in a PA program) operates on a fixed budget and prioritizes education over profit, which is reflected in lower pay.
It’s also worth noting work-life considerations: higher-paying settings like hospitals and ERs might require nights, weekends, and holiday shifts, while lower-paying settings like a clinic or academia might offer a more standard weekday schedule. Some PAs willingly take a bit less money for a job with better hours or less stress. Each PA must balance these factors according to their personal and financial priorities.
The good news is that across all settings, PA salaries remain strong. Even the lower end (around $115K for academic settings) is a robust salary. And because PAs can transition between settings, there is flexibility. For example, a PA might spend early career years in a hospital ER (maximizing earnings), then later move to an office-based practice for a calmer lifestyle. Understanding these setting-based pay differences can help PAs make informed career moves.
Employer Type
Related to practice setting, the type of employer or ownership structure can also affect PA salary. PAs might work for large health systems, small private practices, government agencies, and universities, or be self-employed contractors. Each employer type has different pay scales, benefits, and resources.
From past AAPA salary reports, we have insight into how employer type influences PA compensation. For example, in one survey the highest salaries were reported by PAs who are self-employed or working as independent contractors, while the lower end included those employed by governments or nonprofit entities. Here are some figures (from a few years ago) illustrating this variation:
- Independent Contractor/Self-Employed PAs: Average salary around $130,000. Contractors often negotiate their own rates and may not get benefits, but the higher rate compensates for that. Many locum tenens PAs (discussed below) fall in this category, as do some PAs who open their own clinics (in states where regulations allow) or work for multiple facilities on contract.
- HMO/Managed Care Organization Employees: Average about $123,000. PAs working for Health Maintenance Organizations or large insurance-based medical groups (e.g., Kaiser Permanente is a well-known example of an HMO that employs many PAs) earned above-average salaries, likely due to the large scale and financial stability of these organizations.
- Private Practice (Physician-Owned) or Non-Healthcare Companies: Around $115,000-$116,000. PAs employed by physician-owned businesses or by companies not primarily in healthcare (perhaps corporations employing PAs for on-site clinics, etc.) tended to make mid-range salaries. These employers might have budget constraints or different pay philosophies.
- Medical Staffing Agency Employees: Approximately $114,400 on average. PAs who are technically employed by a staffing agency (which then places them in hospitals or clinics) earned in this range. The staffing company takes a cut of what the hospital pays for the PA’s services, so the direct salary to the PA might be a bit lower than if the hospital hired them outright.
- Government Employers: Around $107,000-$108,000. This includes federal, state, or local government roles – such as VA medical centers, military hospitals, public health clinics, or correctional facility healthcare. Government pay scales are often fixed and may lag slightly behind the private sector, though pensions and benefits are a big plus here.
- Hospitals (Directly Employed): The earlier data also showed a median around $107,000. Many hospitals now employ PAs directly, but some have PAs on staff through physician groups or staffing firms (thus overlapping with other categories). Hospital-employed PAs might have had slightly lower base salaries but often have opportunities for additional pay (overtime, shift differentials, bonuses).
- Academic/University Employers: Typically lower end, similar to government scales (in the $100K-$110K range). This could include PAs who are faculty in PA programs or who work in university-affiliated clinics.
It’s likely that these trends persist in 2025: independent and private-sector employers tend to pay PAs more than public-sector or academic employers. A PA who is essentially running their own practice or contracting will demand a higher pay rate to cover their own benefits and business expenses. Large HMOs or corporate systems pay well to attract talent and because they operate efficiently at scale. On the other hand, government and academia often have pay grades that increase slowly over time and are subject to budget appropriations or grant funding.
One interesting category is urgent care or retail clinics (“Convenient Care”), which averages around $108Kin prior data. These are often run by big healthcare companies or pharmacy chains and have standardized pay. They may not reach the top of the pay scale, but they sometimes offer incentives like bonus pay for high patient volumes.
For a PA considering job offers, it’s worth looking at who the employer is. For example, a job at a private surgical practice might advertise a higher salary than a similar job at a county hospital. However, the benefits package, job security, and work culture also differ with employer type. Government and academic jobs might offer greater stability, more predictable hours, or loan forgiveness programs, partially offsetting the lower salary.
In recent times, more PAs are also moving into contracting and telemedicine roles (some PAs even incorporate as a business and contract their services), which gives them more control over employer type. AAPA data indicated a growing percentage of PAs in non-traditional employment arrangements, which could influence overall salary trends in the future.
In sum, employer type impacts salary as follows: generally, self-employed/contractor PAs and those in large private organizations tend to earn the most, while those in government, nonprofit, or academic settings earn the least, with a variation of roughly $20,000 or more between the top and bottom categories. PAs should consider both the salary and the intangible benefits of each employer type when assessing opportunities.
Physician Assistant Salary, Locum Tenens & Contract Work
Locum tenens (from Latin, meaning “to hold the place”) refers to temporary assignments where healthcare providers fill in at a hospital or clinic for a short period. PAs who work locum tenens or other contract-based jobs can often earn higher hourly rates than those in permanent positions. This is because locum tenens roles are typically used to cover staffing shortages or high-need areas; employers are willing to pay a premium for a provider who can step in on short notice or for a limited time.
Many PAs choose locum tenens as a full-time career or as a supplement to their regular job. For example, a PA might have a permanent job and do occasional locum shifts on weekends for extra income, or they might travel from assignment to assignment as a full-time locum PA. Agencies and staffing companies facilitate these placements and negotiate pay rates.
Why locum tenens can pay more: Facilities in urgent need – say a rural hospital that lost its only ER PA, or a clinic facing seasonal patient surges – may pay above-market rates to attract a temporary PA. Additionally, locum PAs are often compensated for overtime, on-call hours, and travel expenses. As one experienced locum PA noted, “when you work, you get paid for that work… If you work more than 40 hours, you get paid time and a half”. In contrast, some salaried permanent PAs are not paid extra for overtime. Locum positions might also include per diem allowances for housing and food if travel is required, and some even come with benefits like a 401(k) through the locum agency.
For instance, a locum tenens urgent care PA might earn an hourly rate equivalent to a $140,000+ annual salary, whereas a permanently employed urgent care PA in the same region might be making the equivalent of $120,000. One staffing agency advertises that its locum NP/PAs can earn very high wages, especially in high-demand specialties or underserved locations (e.g., suggesting ranges from $80 up to over $100 per hour depending on the role).
It’s also noted that rural or remote assignments tend to pay more for locum PAs. As a locum NP cited, in areas with fewer providers (like parts of Alaska or rural towns), facilities “will offer a higher pay package than in urban locations” to attract locums, sometimes even including loan forgiveness if the provider eventually joins permanently.
However, PAs considering locum tenens work should weigh the pros and cons. Higher pay comes at the cost of less stability. Locum tenens positions are by nature temporary – an assignment might last a few weeks to a few months. There may be gaps between assignments (unpaid time off), and benefits like health insurance need to be handled either through an agency or independently. Locums also requires adaptability, as you are frequently the “new provider” learning the ropes at each facility. Some PAs thrive on the variety and flexibility, while others prefer the stability of one workplace.
From a career earnings perspective, doing some locum work can be a great way to boost income. It can also be a method for burnout prevention or career resets – PAs who feel stuck in a job might switch to locums for a change of scenery and better control over their schedule. A CompHealth survey found many PAs reported locum tenens improved their work-life balance and reduced stress compared to their previous permanent jobs.
Locum tenens and contract work can significantly affect PA income, usually in a positive way for the PA. By taking on temporary roles, PAs often earn a premium (sometimes 20-30% more than an equivalent permanent salary). This is one of the factors a PA can actively use to their advantage if they wish to increase their salary. It’s a different lifestyle and may not be for everyone, but it’s a growing segment of PA employment. As of 2025, with healthcare staffing shortages in many areas, locum tenens opportunities for PAs are plentiful – and many hospitals/clinics are indeed paying top dollar for qualified PAs willing to travel or fill in short-term.
Beyond the Clinic: Alternative Career Paths for PAs
While clinical practice is the primary role for Physician Assistants, the career opportunities for PAs have expanded beyond the traditional exam room. Many experienced PAs transition into non-clinical or hybrid roles that leverage their medical knowledge in new ways. Here are some additional career paths a PA can pursue beyond seeing patients day-to-day, along with emerging trends in each area:
Healthcare Administration and Leadership
As PAs gain experience, some move into administrative and leadership positions within healthcare organizations. A PA’s clinical background combined with organizational insight can make them excellent hospital administrators, department managers, or clinical directors. For instance, seasoned PAs may become a Chief PA (overseeing the utilization of PAs in a hospital) or a clinical program director for a service line (like surgery or emergency services). In large healthcare systems, it’s increasingly common to see PAs in roles such as a Director of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs), where they manage teams of PAs and Nurse Practitioners.
PAs are also taking on titles like Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO) or Director of Medical Informatics in some institutions. In these roles, they help implement and optimize Electronic Health Records (EHR) and other healthcare IT solutions. Andrea Lowe, PA-C, of the AAPA noted that more PAs are working in medical informatics: some have become chief informatics officers for large institutions, especially those PAs who have a knack for health IT and quality improvement. This trend speaks to the versatility of the PA skill set – they can translate between the clinical and IT worlds.
Transitioning to administration often requires additional skills (and sometimes additional education such as an MBA, MHA, or MPH). However, PAs in these roles can potentially earn higher salaries comparable to healthcare executive levels, and they influence healthcare delivery on a broad scale. Leadership roles can exist both in clinical settings (like a hospital) and in corporate settings (like working for a healthcare company managing clinical operations).
Education and Academia
Another career path for PAs is in academia and teaching. Experienced PAs who enjoy mentoring often take positions as faculty in PA programs or other medical education programs. Becoming an instructor or professor in a PA school allows a PA to shape the next generation of clinicians. Academic roles might include classroom teaching, supervising students on rotations, or even program director positions for PA schools.
To go into academia, a PA might need or pursue additional qualifications. Some PA educators obtain a Doctorate (e.g., DMSc or EdD) or other advanced degrees to be competitive for faculty roles. The Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) provides resources for PAs looking to enter academia and often encourages PAs to consider this path. Teaching PAs not only lecture and instruct but also engage in research and scholarship in many cases.
While academic positions for PAs might not pay as much as full-time clinical work (as we saw, PAs in educational services had median wages around $115K), they offer other rewards: intellectual stimulation, a stable schedule (aligned with academic calendars), and the satisfaction of contributing to the profession. Some PAs balance both worlds by teaching part-time while still practicing clinically part-time.
Beyond PA programs, PAs can teach in related fields – such as becoming instructors for undergraduate anatomy or physiology courses, or training other healthcare professionals. In fact, PAs’ broad medical knowledge qualifies them to teach topics ranging from basic sciences to clinical medicine. There have been examples of PAs teaching at medical schools or in residency programs (for instance, leading workshops on clinical skills or assisting in simulation labs). This cross-pollination of roles underscores the PA’s growing presence in medical academia.
Public Health and Policy
Physician Assistants can leverage their clinical experience in the realm of public health, healthcare administration, and policy advocacy. Some PAs transition to jobs in government agencies like the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) or the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to work on public health initiatives. In these roles, PAs might help develop healthcare policies, manage public health programs, or work on improving healthcare access and equity.
Sondra DePalma, DHSc, PA-C, from AAPA has noted an increase in PAs taking jobs in public health, working on policy development and ensuring access to care. PAs in public health might manage programs on disease prevention, lead community health projects, or serve as public health officers.
Another related avenue is healthcare advocacy and policy leadership. PAs can work with professional organizations (like AAPA itself or state PA chapters) or even government bodies as policy advisors. For example, a PA might serve on a legislative health committee staff or work for a health policy think tank, ensuring that the voice and perspective of PAs and other clinicians are represented in healthcare legislation. Some have even taken roles in the federal government – working with lawmakers or agencies to shape regulations that affect healthcare practice. This can help “lift barriers that limit the scope and reach of the PA profession,” as advocates work to modernize laws (such as those around PA supervision/collaboration requirements).
While these roles are non-clinical, the knowledge of patient care that PAs possess is extremely valuable in policy and administrative circles. It grounds policy in reality. PAs in these positions might not earn clinical salaries, but many such roles (especially higher-level government or NGO positions) are still well-compensated and come with influence and the ability to impact healthcare on a large scale. Furthermore, a PA who has earned an MPH (Master of Public Health) or similar credential might find a very fulfilling career blending clinical insight with public health strategy.
Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Informatics Industries
An expanding frontier for PAs is in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical technology industries. Companies in these sectors increasingly recognize the value of having clinically trained professionals on their teams. PAs moving into these industries can take on roles such as:
- Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs): These are clinicians who work for pharmaceutical or biotech companies to educate healthcare providers about new drugs and medical products. PAs as MSLs use their clinical background to communicate complex scientific information to physicians and to relay field insights back to their companies.
- Clinical Research and Trials: PAs can work in managing or coordinating clinical trials for new medications or medical devices. They may serve as clinical research associates or study managers, ensuring that trials are conducted properly and safely. Some PAs work for Contract Research Organizations (CROs) or directly for pharma companies in these capacities.
- Regulatory Affairs: Navigating FDA regulations and ensuring compliance for new medical products is a specialized niche. PAs, with some additional training, can work in regulatory affairs to help bring products to market.
- Product Development and Consulting: A PA’s perspective is valuable in designing medical devices or healthcare software. They might join teams developing innovative health tech (like digital health apps, clinical decision support tools, etc.) to provide user feedback and ensure the product meets clinical needs.
The skills PAs bring – medical knowledge, patient care experience, communication skills – are highly sought in these roles. PAs often excel in roles that require translating between the scientific/technical side and the clinical/practical side. For example, a PA working for a biotech firm might help design the protocol for how a new diagnostic tool should be implemented in clinics, bridging the gap between engineers and physicians.
Andrea Lowe, PA-C, noted that PAs are also being hired in pharmaceutical and biotech companies and medical device manufacturers for roles in research, clinical trials, and communications. This indicates a growing acceptance and desire for PA-trained professionals in the private sector of healthcare innovation.
In terms of salary, industry jobs can be quite lucrative – often on par with or exceeding clinical salaries, especially as one moves up the corporate ladder. A PA working as a medical liaison or in research for a large pharma company might earn a base salary similar to a clinical PA, with potential bonuses and stock options on top of that. Plus, these roles typically come with traditional corporate benefits and sometimes better work-life balance (e.g., no patients on weekends, though there can be travel).
Additionally, PAs are finding roles in health insurance companies (as medical directors or utilization review specialists) and in healthcare consulting firms. These positions utilize a PA’s clinical expertise to inform insurance coverage decisions or to advise hospitals on improving efficiency and patient outcomes.
Nonprofit and Global Health Work
PAs have also made inroads in the nonprofit sector and global health. Many medical nonprofit organizations, humanitarian groups, and global health NGOs employ PAs for their clinical expertise and flexibility. For example, organizations like Doctors Without Borders, Partners In Health, or faith-based medical missions often include PAs on their teams to deliver care in resource-limited settings.
Working for a nonprofit, either domestically or internationally, can be incredibly rewarding. PAs might provide care in underserved urban communities or travel to countries in need of medical aid. One PA cited in an example worked with a flying medical service in East Africa right after PA school, providing primary care to children who otherwise had no access to healthcare. Experiences like these can be life-changing for both providers and patients.
Non-clinical roles in nonprofits are also available. Some PAs work for foundations or professional associations focusing on program management, grant writing for health initiatives, or training community health workers. For instance, a PA might manage a public health project funded by a nonprofit, using their medical background to design effective interventions.
In the U.S., PAs in community health centers or free clinics (often run by nonprofits) serve vulnerable populations. While salaries in the nonprofit sector are usually lower than in for-profit medicine, loan repayment programs, fellowship stipends, or mission-driven fulfillment can compensate. PAs in federal qualified health centers (FQHCs) or charitable clinics often qualify for the National Health Service Corps loan repayment, which can be a significant financial benefit.
Moreover, some PAs take on advocacy roles within nonprofits, such as working for patient advocacy groups or health education charities. They use their knowledge to help educate communities, shape public opinion on health issues, or directly assist patients in navigating the healthcare system.
Telemedicine and Digital Health
No discussion of PA career paths in 2025 would be complete without mentioning telemedicine. The COVID-19 pandemic vastly accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, and PAs have been at the forefront of this wave. Telemedicine allows PAs to provide patient care remotely via video calls, phone calls, or digital monitoring.
Many PAs now work either part-time or full-time in telehealth roles, managing patients with chronic conditions, providing urgent care consults, or following up on specialty care – all virtually. Telehealth positions often allow PAs to work from home, sometimes with flexible hours. They can also be combined with locum or part-time arrangements, giving PAs additional income streams.
From a career perspective, telemedicine has opened opportunities for PAs to practice across state lines (with appropriate licensing) and to reach patients in underserved areas without relocating. It has also spurred PAs to become proficient with digital health tools and remote patient monitoring devices.
Telehealth does influence the salary model: some telemedicine jobs pay per consultation or on an hourly basis rather than a fixed salary. A PA doing high-volume telemedicine (e.g., seeing many urgent care patients via an app) might earn comparable pay to an in-person urgent care PA. Others might use telehealth as supplemental income, especially if they can log on during off-hours.
Additionally, PAs are involved in developing telehealth protocols and digital health programs. Their input ensures that virtual care maintains quality. As healthcare continues to integrate more technology (like AI-driven decision support, remote diagnostics, etc.), PAs who are tech-savvy may find roles in digital health companies designing the next generation of telemedicine platforms.
As we see, a PA’s career can extend into many domains beyond the traditional clinical practice. Whether it’s climbing the leadership ladder in a hospital, educating future clinicians, shaping public health policy, innovating in the medical device industry, or delivering care via a computer screen, PAs are doing it all in 2025.
These paths provide personal and professional growth and can influence a PA’s earning potential and job satisfaction. For instance, moving into pharma or consulting might increase income; moving into academia might decrease income but increase stability or fulfillment in other ways. Each PA can tailor their career to their interests, a testament to the PA profession’s flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Physician Assistants enjoy a robust career outlook with high salaries, strong demand, and a widening array of opportunities. In 2025, the median PA salary is around $130K nationally, reflecting the critical role PAs play in healthcare delivery. Key factors such as specialty, location, experience, practice setting, employer type, and work style (permanent vs. locum) all influence where an individual PA’s salary falls within the broad range.
For example, a PA specializing in cardiothoracic surgery in California with a decade of experience might earn well above the median (potentially into the $150K+ range), while a new graduate PA in primary care in the South might start closer to $100K. Understanding these factors empowers PAs and PA students to make informed decisions about their careers – whether it’s choosing a specialty, negotiating a job offer, or deciding where to practice.
We’ve also highlighted how the PA profession is evolving. Educationally, PAs are entering the workforce in greater numbers than ever, and with new certifications and training programs, they are more prepared to take on specialized and advanced roles. Career-wise, PAs are branching out into leadership, teaching, research, industry, and telehealth, proving that the skill set of a PA is versatile and in demand across the healthcare spectrum. These alternative paths can offer new challenges and rewards, and many of them contribute back to the profession by raising the profile of PAs in various sectors.
For readers interested in PA career prospects, the key takeaways are encouraging: PAs have excellent salary potential (with many ways to maximize it) and numerous avenues for career growth. The job market remains very strong – the projected growth rate of 28% this decade means opportunities are abundant. Furthermore, as healthcare emphasizes team-based care and physician shortages persist, PAs will likely take on even greater responsibilities and leadership, which could further elevate their compensation and influence.
In choosing the PA path, one should consider not just the national averages, but also personal interests (specialty passion), willingness to relocate, and long-term career goals (clinical mastery vs. branching out). A PA can tailor their career in ways that align with both their financial goals and their professional aspirations. For instance, one might start in emergency medicine for high pay and excitement, then later move into an administrative role or part-time telemedicine for flexibility.
Overall, the PA profession in 2025 offers a rewarding blend of high earnings, job stability, and flexibility. By staying informed about trends in salaries and being open to continuous learning and adaptation, PAs can ensure they thrive in this dynamic field. Whether your goal is to be the go-to provider in a surgical department, a trusted primary care clinician in your hometown, or a PA executive leading healthcare innovation, the opportunities are there – and the compensation is commensurate with the impact PAs are making every day in patients’ lives.
Sources and Supporting URLs
Physician Assistant Salary Data
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Occupational Outlook for Physician Assistants
Provides detailed information on employment outlook, job duties, and salary statistics for Physician Assistants.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm - American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Salary Report 2024
An annual report detailing compensation trends, salary statistics, and factors influencing PA salaries.
https://www.aapa.org/research/salary-report/
Education and Certification Information
- Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)
The accrediting agency for PA educational programs in the United States.
http://www.arc-pa.org/ - National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA): Certification Process
Details the current statistical data of Physician Assistants by State.
https://www.nccpa.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2023-NCCPA-Statistical-Profile-of-Board-Certified-PAs-by-State.pdf - Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA): Program Directory
Provides a comprehensive directory of PA programs and educational resources.
https://paeaonline.org/assessment/assessment-center-resources
Career Specializations and CAQ Certifications
- NCCPA Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ)
Information on specialty certifications available to PAs seeking to demonstrate advanced expertise.
https://www.nccpa.net/specialty-certificates/ - Mayo Clinic College of Medicine: PA Residencies and Fellowships
Offers postgraduate training programs for PAs in various specialties.
https://college.mayo.edu/academics/explore-health-care-careers/careers-a-z/physician-assistant/
Alternative Career Paths and Industry Opportunities
- CompHealth: Physician Assistant Jobs
Explore a wide range of PA job opportunities, including locum tenens positions, across various specialties and locations.
https://comphealth.com/jobs/physician-assistant - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): Career Opportunities
Lists job openings and career information within CMS.
https://www.cms.gov/about-cms/work-with-us/careers - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Public Health Professionals Gateway
Provides career information for public health professionals, including PAs.
https://www.cdc.gov/jobs/ - National Institutes of Health (NIH): Job Opportunities
Offers information on careers at NIH, including clinical and research positions suitable for PAs.
https://jobs.nih.gov/ - National Health Service Corps (NHSC): Loan Repayment Programs
Details loan repayment options for PAs working in underserved areas.
https://nhsc.hrsa.gov/loan-repayment - Doctors Without Borders: Work With Us
Information on field assignments and requirements for medical professionals, including PAs.
https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/careers/work-internationally
Additional Data and Resources
AAPA Annual Salary Report
A comprehensive report on PA compensation, benefits, and trends.
https://www.aapa.org/research/salary-report/
Is This Career Path Correct for You?
How much do Physician Assistants make? Now you know a national average, what six factors influence your salary, and how you can become a PA. But is this the correct career path for you? We believe it’s time to explore your options and enjoy a fulfilling career. To start, consider completing a Pre-PA Internship. It’ll immerse you into the medical field, and it’ll help you gain a deeper understanding of this career. Use it to make an informed decision about your future.
