Neonatologist salary continues to spark interest among current and aspiring pediatric specialists, with recent numbers revealing meaningful shifts in income averages across the United States. If you’re tracking compensation or career prospects, August 2025 brings crucial new benchmarks for those working in neonatal medicine.
Fresh data shows that the average neonatologist salary in the U.S. is $287,700 per year, with an hourly rate of $139[2]. Those in key metropolitan areas—like Detroit, Michigan—earn slightly above this figure, with the average neonatology salary in Detroit reaching $284,896 annually or $136.97 an hour[5]. Notably, Michigan overall has a lower statewide average, tallying $250,831 per year or $120.59 per hour, ranking it 50th of all states for neonatologist compensation in 2025[1].
Current Salary Ranges and How They Compare For neonatologists nationwide, most salaries range from $201,730 up to $400,416 depending on experience, location, and hospital system[2].
- Salaries at the 25th percentile average $272,100
- The median sits at $288,900
- Top earners (75th percentile) collect $318,600 or more[2]
Put side-by-side with other physician groups, neonatologists remain in the middle tier of compensation. Highly specialized fields such as cardiology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery see average annual incomes well over $500,000; however, the earnings growth rate for neonatologists has outpaced many of these other specialties, rising 12% across the last 5 years[4].
Regional Insights and Local Highlights Detroit stands out as a regional leader with an average neonatology salary above the U.S. median, while Michigan’s statewide average lags behind. The highest-paying states for physicians overall—Montana, South Dakota, Wyoming, Indiana, and Colorado—likely offer the best negotiation leverage for top compensation[4].
Breakdown Table: Neonatologist Salary (2025) by Region
| Location | Avg. Hourly | Avg. Annual | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States Avg. | $139 | $287,700 | Median salary[2] |
| Detroit, MI | $136.97 | $284,896 | Metro above average[5] |
| State of Michigan | $120.59 | $250,831 | 50th out of 50 states[1] |
Market Trends and Job Opportunities Recently posted hospital positions reveal wide salary gaps. For example, NYC Health + Hospitals advertised roles around $191,966 in New York, while Dignity Health in California offered $331,103, and select locations such as Long Beach saw offers up to $375,000[3]. Zippia’s latest statistics report the average U.S. neonatologist salary at $195,000 with a 2.4% increase this year versus last. However, figures vary greatly by institution and region, with annual incomes spanning from $61,000 to $616,000 based on skill set and market needs[3].
Job market activity in Michigan is notably low, meaning fewer posting opportunities. However, as neonatal care demand grows in high-birth and urban areas, compensation standards are expected to rise into next year[1].
Salary Growth Outlook for 2025 and Beyond Economic research estimates put next year’s neonatologist salary at $350,771 if the current 12% growth trend holds steady[4]. This would signal an ongoing rise in compensation and a robust outlook for neonatal medicine specialists.
Key Takeaways:
- U.S. neonatologist salary averages $287,700 per year in 2025[2].
- Detroit metro neonatologists earn $284,896, while Michigan averages less at $250,831[5][1].
- Salaries have increased over the past five years at a faster pace than many other physician specialties[4].
- Major metro regions and select states drive higher compensation.
Are you seeing salary shifts in your region? Curious how these numbers compare with your hospital’s compensation? Share your experiences or questions below and join the discussion about neonatologist salary trends in today’s healthcare marketplace.