The average starting salary for cardiologists has risen to $470,000 in 2025, a 19% increase from $396,000 in 2024, according to Dallas-based AMN Healthcare’s 2025 “Review of Physician and Advanced Practitioner Recruiting Incentives” published Aug.5.
Cardiology’s growth outpaced the average starting salary increase for physicians overall, which reached $403,000 across all specialties. Orthopedic surgeons topped the list, leading at $576,000.
AMN Healthcare attributed the strong demand for specialists — including cardiologists — to the rapid growth of the nation’s senior population and an ongoing physician shortage.
In addition to base pay, physicians are being offered larger incentive packages. The average signing bonus rose by 23% year over year to $38,315, while relocation allowances averaged $12,619 and CME stipends averaged $4,073.
The report is based on 1,420 search engagements conducted from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.
