Medical Salaries in India and Abroad: What Doctors Really Earn
When you think about medical salaries, the money doctors make after years of training and long hours. Also known as physician pay, it’s not just about how hard you work—it’s about where you work, what you specialize in, and who’s paying you. In India, a fresh MBBS graduate might start at ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 a month in a government hospital, but that number can jump to ₹1.5 lakh or more in private hospitals or abroad. In the USA, an MBBS doctor (called an MD there) can earn anywhere from $60,000 to over $400,000 a year, depending on the specialty and state. It’s not magic—it’s a mix of demand, cost of living, and training length.
Not all doctors earn the same. A neurosurgeon, a doctor who operates on the brain and spine makes far more than a general physician, even in the same country. In the USA, radiologists, doctors who interpret scans like MRIs and X-rays often earn over $350,000, while family doctors might stay closer to $200,000. In India, specialists in cities like Mumbai or Delhi pull in 2-3 times more than those in smaller towns. And if you’re an Indian doctor working in the USA, Canada, or the UK, your salary doesn’t just go up—it multiplies. But don’t forget the cost: US medical school debt can hit $300,000, and licensing exams like USMLE take years to pass.
What you’re really buying with a medical degree isn’t just a job—it’s a career with long-term earning power. But the path isn’t the same everywhere. In India, government jobs offer stability and benefits, but slower growth. In the USA, private practice means higher pay but more responsibility. And if you’re thinking about moving abroad, your Indian MBBS degree is accepted, but you’ll still need to clear exams, get visas, and adapt to a new system. The good news? The demand for doctors isn’t slowing down. Whether you’re in a rural clinic in Bihar or a hospital in Texas, your skills are valuable. Below, you’ll find real stories and numbers on what doctors earn—from fresh grads to seasoned specialists—in both India and the USA, with no fluff, just what matters.
- By Nolan Blackburn
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- 21 Apr 2025
Who is the Highest-Paid Doctor in India? What NEET Aspirants Need to Know
Curious about who tops the earnings chart among doctors in India? This article digs into the numbers, shares real-life stories, and explains how NEET coaching can put you on the right path. Find out what specialties pay the most, tricks high earners use, and tips for ambitious students. See why some doctors rake in crores while others don't—and learn how you, too, can aim high. Packed with facts that both students and parents find handy.