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Hatice Beslioglu

Physicians' salaries in Germany: A look behind the numbers

Updated: Jan 7

The profession of doctor is undoubtedly one of the most respected and demanding professions in Germany. In addition to the ethical responsibility of healing people, the salary also plays a decisive role in the choice of profession. The StepStone Salary Report 2022 has analysed extensive data to provide an insight into the income situation of doctors in Germany. Here are some exciting results:



The average salary of doctors in Germany

In 2022, the average gross annual salary of a doctor in Germany was around 92,597 €. This makes doctors undoubtedly among the top earners in the country. But this figure conceals interesting details. The gender gap in the medical profession

The gender gap that still exists in the medical profession is remarkable. Male doctors earn on average around 93,600 € a year, their female colleagues significantly less with an average of 70,000 €. This corresponds to a difference of about 25 percent. Factors influencing the doctor's salary

The salary of doctors is determined by various factors, two of which are particularly important: career stage and professional experience. Doctors pass through different career stages, including assistant doctor, specialist doctor, (senior) physician and chief physician. Salary increases with career level. Assistant doctors, who are usually newcomers to the profession and complete several years of specialist training, earn the least at the beginning. However, with increasing experience and expertise, their salary also increases. Professional experience at a certain career level also plays a decisive role. Hospitals usually pay doctors according to collective agreements that provide for graduated remuneration. The longer a doctor stays at a career level, the higher his or her salary.


The role of the type of employer

The type of employer also has a major impact on doctors' salaries. Hospitals can be divided into private, church and public institutions, which affects salaries. The doctor's salary in hospital

In hospitals, doctors' salaries are usually regulated by collective agreements. Enclosed are the average gross annual salaries for different career levels:

  • Resident salary: approx. € 60,000 - 75,000

  • Specialist salary: approx. 75,000 € - 98,000

  • Senior physician salary: approx. € 90,000 - € 150,000

  • Chief physician salary: approx. € 150,000 - € 370,000

Chief physicians usually receive non-tariff allowances that are freely negotiable and can lead to better earnings. Ultimately, the salary of a doctor in Germany depends on various factors. It starts with the entry-level salaries for assistant doctors and extends to the higher incomes of chief physicians. The motivation to help other people and save lives is and remains one of the most important aspects of the medical profession.


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