Doctor Salary in Canada: Specialization, Factors and More

In 2025, doctors in Canada earn between CA$156K (₹95L) and CA$870K (₹5.3Cr), with family physicians averaging CA$200K–CA$340K (₹1.2Cr–₹2Cr) and specialists like surgeons and cardiologists making much more.  

Salaries vary by province, experience, and specialization, with Alberta and Ontario offering higher pay. A recent update includes Ontario’s digital health program, giving doctors up to 7% extra income for virtual care adoption, further boosting earning potential. 

Doctors in Canada enjoy some of the world’s highest salaries, supported by a strong healthcare system, high demand, and good work-life balance. Earnings vary by specialization, location, and experience, making it a rewarding career choice. 

The average doctor's salary in Canada is among the highest globally, but it varies based on specialization, location, and years of experience. This blog will help you understand the Salary of a Doctor in Canada by all factors. 

Planning to start your medical career? Check out the top medical courses in Canada.  

Doctor Salary in Canada: Overview 

The average doctor salary in Canada typically falls between CA$150,000 (₹91L) and CA$350,000 (₹2.1Cr) per year. General practitioners (family doctors) usually earn on the lower end of the scale, while specialists and surgeons command significantly higher salaries.  

Apart from specialization, factors like experience and location play a big role. Senior doctors with many years of practice can earn far more than entry-level physicians, and doctors working in high-demand provinces or rural areas may also receive higher compensation packages or additional incentives. 

Below is the overview:  

Also Read: Medical Courses in Canada After 12th 

Average Doctor Salary in Canada: By Specialization 

Specialization plays a key role in the salary of a doctor in Canada. While general practitioners and family physicians earn a steady income, specialists in high-demand fields like surgery, cardiology, and anesthesiology earn significantly more.  

The average doctor salary in Canada also varies with experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility. 

Below is the average annual doctor salary in Canada by specialization: 

Note: The above figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and other factors. 

Doctor Salaries by Province in Canada 

The average doctor salary in Canada varies widely across provinces due to differences in healthcare budgets, cost of living, and regional demand.  

Doctors in provinces with larger urban centers or higher patient volumes generally earn more, while rural areas may offer additional incentives to attract physicians.  

Understanding these provincial differences helps aspiring doctors plan their careers and make informed decisions about where to practice.  

Below is an overview of average annual salaries by province in both CAD and INR. 

Note: The above figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and other factors. 

Doctor Salary by Experience Level in Canada 

Experience is one of the most important factors influencing the salary of a doctor in Canada. The average doctor salary in Canada increases significantly as physicians gain more years of practice and expertise.  

Entry-level doctors earn a modest starting salary, while mid-level doctors see substantial growth as they gain clinical skills and reputation. Senior-level doctors, especially specialists and those in high-demand fields, can earn top-tier salaries reflecting their expertise, leadership roles, and years of practice.  

Below is an overview of doctor salaries in Canada by experience level in both CAD and INR. 

Note: The above figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and other factors. 

Comparison of Doctor Salaries in Canada vs Other Countries 

Before choosing where to practice, many international doctors consider the salary of a doctor in Canada compared to other countries. The average doctor salary in Canada is highly competitive globally, offering strong income along with an excellent work-life balance and a robust healthcare system.  

While Canada’s salaries are higher than in countries like the UK and Australia, they are slightly lower than in the USA, where top specialists can earn substantially more.  

This comparison helps aspiring and practicing doctors evaluate earning potential and career opportunities internationally. 

Note: The above figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and other factors. 

Factors Affecting the Salary of a Doctor in Canada 

The salary of a doctor in Canada is influenced by several important factors that determine overall earnings. Understanding these factors is essential for aspiring and practicing doctors to make informed career decisions, select the right specialization, and choose where and how to practice.  

Here are some factors that affect the Salary of a doctor in Canada:  

• Location: The region where a doctor practices significantly affects their income. Doctors in major urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary typically earn higher salaries, ranging from CA$200,000 – CA$350,000 (₹1.22Cr – ₹2.14Cr), while rural areas may offer additional government incentives and higher demand to attract physicians. 
• Specialization: Specialized fields such as surgery, cardiology, dermatology, anesthesiology, and psychiatry command higher salaries compared to general practice. Specialists can earn between CA$300,000 – CA$500,000 (₹1.84Cr – ₹3.06Cr) annually depending on their field and demand. 
• Experience & Seniority: Experience greatly impacts the salary of a doctor in Canada. Entry-level doctors with 0–5 years of experience earn around CA$120,000 – CA$180,000 (₹73L – ₹1.1Cr), mid-level doctors with 5–10 years earn CA$200,000 – CA$280,000 (₹1.22Cr – ₹1.71Cr), and senior doctors with over 10 years of experience or consultant roles can earn CA$300,000 – CA$500,000 (₹1.84Cr – ₹3.06Cr). 
• Workplace (Public vs Private): Most doctors work within Canada’s public healthcare system, where salaries are stable, ranging from CA$150,000 – CA$350,000 (₹91L – ₹2.14Cr). Private practice can provide additional income opportunities, especially for specialists and those with established reputations. 
• Economic and Regional Factors: Provincial healthcare budgets, local demand for doctors, and cost of living influence salaries across Canada. Earnings typically range from CA$180,000 – CA$350,000 (₹1.1Cr – ₹2.14Cr), with provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia offering higher compensation compared to others. 

Doctor Salary Across Different Healthcare Settings in Canada 

Physician earnings in Canada vary significantly based on the healthcare setting. Government hospitals and academic institutions typically offer higher salaries, averaging around CA$165,000 (approximately ₹99.38 lakh). 

 Private hospitals provide slightly lower compensation, with average earnings around CA$158,000 (about ₹95.16 lakh). Independent practitioners, such as those running their own clinics, generally earn less, with average salaries around CA$100,000 (roughly ₹60.23 lakh). 

The table below shows the average salary across different Heathcare: 

Note: The above figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and other factors. 

Conclusion 

The salary of a doctor in Canada reflects the country’s commitment to rewarding medical professionals for their skills and dedication. With the average doctor salary in Canada ranging from CAD 150,000 to CAD 350,000 annually, doctors enjoy a lucrative career with excellent growth opportunities.  

Factors such as specialization, experience, location, and type of practice significantly influence earnings, making Canada an attractive destination for both domestic and international doctors. Whether you are starting your medical career or planning to move as a practicing doctor, understanding the salary of a doctor in Canada and the average doctor salary in Canada will help you make informed career decisions.