Pulmonology Salary Guide 2026
Complete compensation data for healthcare recruiters. Based on the 2025 Medscape Physician Compensation Report, MGMA DataDive Provider Compensation, and Doximity Physician Compensation Report.
Average Salary$418,000+4.1% vs 2025
Key Compensation Metrics
Median Salary
$400,00090th Percentile
$520,000Sign-On Bonus
$25,000-$60,000Demand Level
HighSalary Distribution
25th PercentileMedian75th Percentile90th Percentile
$355,000$400,000$470,000$520,000
Total Compensation Range: $310,000 to $540,000, including base salary, production bonuses (avg. $55,000/year), and benefits.
Top-Paying States
1California
$470,0002New York
$455,0003Texas
$440,0004Florida
$430,0005New Jersey
$425,000Top-Paying Cities
1San Francisco, CA
$510,0002New York, NY
$495,0003Los Angeles, CA
$480,0004Houston, TX
$460,0005Chicago, IL
$450,000Factors Affecting Compensation
- Critical care inclusion
- Procedure volume (bronch, thoracentesis)
- Sleep medicine
- Call intensity
- ICU coverage
About Pulmonology
Pulmonologists treat lung diseases and often provide critical care. Combined pulm/critical care fellowship is most common path with higher compensation.
Required Certifications
- ABIM Board Certification in Pulmonary Disease
- State Medical License
- DEA Registration
Typical Employers
- Hospital Systems
- Pulmonary Groups
- Academic Centers
- Sleep Centers
Work Settings
- ICU
- Hospital
- Outpatient Clinic
- Sleep Lab
Market Outlook & Demand
High Demand
Demand increased post-COVID; critical care skills highly valued
Year-over-Year Change
+4.1%
Avg. Production Bonus
$55,000