Neurologists are physicians who treat the conditions and disorders of the central nervous system. Doctors must complete an extensive education before obtaining a state license to practice medicine. In addition to undergraduate education and medical school, neurologists must complete an internship and residency program to qualify for certification in the field. The average salary of a neurologist is between $124,480 and $223,225, according to PayScale, as of December 2010.
Location
The average salary for a neurologist can vary according to geographic location. The salary for a neurologist practicing in New York is $154,000, while those practicing in Florida earn an average salary of $125,000, according to Indeed. The cost of living is 47 percent higher in New York City than in Tampa. One of the factors contributing to the cost of living is the price of housing. The housing cost in New York is 74 percent higher than it is in Tampa.
Type of Employer
Neurologists can work in private practice, hospitals, nonprofit organizations or be self-employed. Self-employed physicians with a salary range of $176,594 to $256,021 earn the highest salaries in neurology. State government employers pay salaries to neurologists of $74,705 to $163,696, according to PayScale. Hospital neurologists earn a salary range between $102,113 and $203,510.
Experience
Through years of experience, a neurologist builds his skills and his reputation, resulting in a higher salary range. According to PayScale, those physicians with 20 years or more in practice earn salaries of $158,141 to $247,686 while those with less than a year earn between $96,662 and $193,817.
Benefits
Employers offer benefits to employees to attract skilled workers. Hospitals and other employers of neurologists offer benefits, which add to the value of the annual salary. Popular benefits for a neurologist include malpractice insurance, paid holidays, paid sick time, 401(k) plans, insurance and education assistance. These benefits increase the value of the compensation package the neurologist earns.
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