Average Cardiologist Salary in US in 2024

Are you looking to become a cardiologist in the US? Cardiologists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. This field of medicine is known as cardiology. 

To become a cardiologist, you must undergo extensive education and training, including medical school, internal medicine residency, and a cardiology fellowship, which can take over a decade to complete. Your expertise and specialised skills as a cardiologist will be highly valued and aptly reflected in your compensation. 

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In fact, the profession of cardiologist is the 7th most sought-after profession in the US. Did you know that the average cardiologist salary in the US has increased by 3.8% in 2024? That is not all! Cardiologists also receive bonuses that equate to 14% of their yearly package.

The average cardiologist salary per month in the USA is INR 22L, bringing the average cardiologist salary in the US in 2024 between 1.5Cr (USD 179k) and INR 3.5Cr (USD 419k) per annum. Still, a lot depends on factors like your specialisation, the salary variations across different regions, and the overall job outlook.

You might also like to know that according to QS World Rankings 2025, the US has 26 universities in the top 100 universities globally, like Columbia University and Stanford University, making it one of the best countries to study and become a full-fledged cardiologist.

This guide sheds light on the various aspects of a cardiologist’s salary in the US, offering a comprehensive overview for aspiring and practising cardiologists like you.

Key Highlights

Here’s a little peek at everything that’s covered in this blog post – how much do cardiologists earn in the USA, why being a cardiologist in the US can be a big deal for Indian students, the earning capacity based on cardiology specialisation, and more. Have a look. 

Why become a Cardiologist in the US?

Did you know that, according to heart.org, it has been claimed that around 60% of adults in the US will be affected by heart-related ailments by the year 2050? 

This stat alone should indicate why becoming a cardiologist in the US is an advantageous career choice for you in 2024. Due to the rising number of heart-related ailments, cardiologists like you will be offered financial benefits, job stability, professional growth, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on public health.

Here are some compelling reasons you should pursue a career in this field.

1. High Earning Potential

Being a cardiologist, you will be among the highest-paid medical professionals in the US, with average annual salaries ranging from INR 1.5Cr to INR 3.5Cr. This lucrative compensation reflects the specialised skills and extensive training required for the profession.

2. Job Stability and Demand

According to recent surveys conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for cardiologists in the US will likely increase by 18% by 2025, signifying that it is a great career choice for aspiring cardiologists like you.

Wondering what factors contribute to such predictions? Here’s the deal: the demand for cardiologists is expected to grow due to an ageing population and the increasing cases of heart disease. This worrying trend highlights that the country will soon be in dire need of skilled cardiologists in the coming years.

3. Impactful Work

As a cardiologist, you will be crucial in diagnosing, treating, and preventing heart conditions, directly impacting patients’ lives. The ability to significantly improve and even save lives will give you an immense sense of fulfilment and purpose.

4. Advanced Medical Technology

The US healthcare system is at the forefront of medical technology and innovation. Being a cardiologist in the US, you will have access to the latest diagnostic and treatment tools, such as Transcatheter Interventions and Advanced Ablation Techniques, allowing you to provide the highest level of care. Needless to say, you will be in the league of the most qualified cardiologists in the world once you get to work with such advanced technologies.

5. Opportunities for Specialisation

Being a cardiologist, you can take on various subspecialties, such as interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and paediatric cardiology. These fields will allow you to focus on specific aspects of heart health, catering to your interests and enhancing your expertise.

6. Research and Academic Opportunities

The US has many prestigious medical institutions and research centres like Harvard University and Johns Hopkins University, where you can engage in cutting-edge research, contribute to medical advancements, and pursue academic positions, furthering your professional growth.

7. Professional Recognition

The medical community and society highly respect cardiologists in the US. Your specialised knowledge and skills as a certified cardiologist will earn you distinguished status and recognition through awards, such as being named a prominent scientist or a distinguished cardiovascular team member. Having such awards under your belt will add a lot of credibility and help you grow.

8. Comprehensive Training Programs

The US offers extensive and well-structured training programs for cardiologists, including fellowships that will provide you with hands-on experience and mentorship from leading experts in the field.

Some notable training programs you can take part in include:

• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Cardiovascular Disease Training Program
• Dell Medical School – Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship Program

With top-ranked universities like Columbia and Stanford offering world-class education, making that leap might seem expensive. But that’s no longer true with Leap Finance by your side. Leap Finance provides education loans at competitive interest rates starting from 11%, compared to traditional loan options, to help you achieve your dream of studying in these prestigious institutions.

How Much Do Cardiologists Earn In the USA?

Being a cardiologist, you will be among the highest-paid medical professionals in the United States, reflecting the specialised skills and extensive training required in this field. Your salary, however, will vary widely based on factors such as your experience, subspecialty, geographic location, and employer type. 

Still, if you compare the average annual salary of a cardiologist in the US with those of lawyers and engineers (it’s INR 1 Cr for both), you’ll realise that cardiologists earn a lot more with a whopping yearly income of INR 3.2Cr.

In the medical field, an experienced Nuclear Cardiologist will earn around INR 3Cr per annum, whereas an entry-level Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist will earn around INR 98L annually.

Here, take a look at some of the popular cardiologist specialisations and how much you can expect to earn annually by practising them.

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1. Invasive Cardiologist

An invasive cardiologist, more commonly known as a Surgeon, is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating heart diseases using minimally invasive procedures. 

These specialists perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as Percutaneous coronary intervention and Atherectomy, which involve entering the body, typically through the blood vessels, to access the heart. 

Their work is critical in managing various cardiovascular conditions, from coronary artery disease to structural heart issues.

In invasive specialisation, the average annual cardiologist salary in the US is 3.7Cr, with an hourly rate of INR 18k.

2. Non-Invasive Cardiologist

A non-invasive cardiologist, more commonly known as a physician, is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and managing heart diseases without performing procedures that require entering the body. 

These specialists use imaging techniques and other diagnostic tools to assess heart health and develop treatment plans. Their work is essential in the early detection, management, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

In non-invasive specialisation, the average annual cardiologist salary in the US is INR 3.2Cr, with an hourly rate of INR 16k.

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3. Interventional Cardiologist

An interventional cardiologist is a highly specialised medical doctor who focuses on diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases using catheter-based procedures. 

These minimally invasive techniques are performed to open blocked arteries, repair heart valves, and address other cardiovascular issues without the need for open-heart surgery.

The average annual cardiologist salary in the US in interventional specialisation is INR 4.3Cr.

An entry-level interventional cardiologist can look to earn INR 1.5Cr annually, whereas an interventional cardiologist with 5-8 years of experience can earn upwards of INR 6.3Cr.

Here’s a quick glimpse of the cardiologist salary in the US based on specialisations for your reference.   

Given the impressive salaries for various cardiologist specialities, investing in your education now will pay off later. Leap Finance can help manage your educational expenses. How? We offer student loans that can cover your tuition fees as well as the cost of living. What’s better? We do not require any collateral in lieu of providing you with a loan. Contact us for details now.

Also Read: Differences Between CMA India VS CMA US: Which is Better for Career Goals?

Types of Cardiologist Specialisations in the US

Cardiology is a diverse field with several subspecialties, allowing cardiologists to focus on specific aspects of heart health. 

On average, a cardiologist salary in the US is INR 3.2Cr, but for subspecialities such as Heart Failure Specialists or Paediatric cardiologists, you can look to earn an annual salary of INR 2.7Cr and INR 2.6Cr.

These subspecialties require additional training and certification, reflecting the complexity and depth of knowledge needed to provide specialised cardiac care. This diversity within cardiology ensures that patients receive tailored and expert treatment for a wide range of heart-related conditions.

• Interventional Cardiology: An Interventional cardiologist specialises in catheter-based treatments for heart diseases. You will perform procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the heart.

• Electrophysiology: Electrophysiologists focus on diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders, also known as arrhythmias. You will use techniques such as electrophysiological studies, ablation therapy, and the implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators.

• Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology: These cardiologists specialise in managing advanced heart failure and coordinating heart transplants. You will provide comprehensive care for patients with severe heart conditions and oversee the transplantation process.

• Paediatric Cardiology: Paediatric cardiologists treat congenital and acquired heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. You will perform diagnostic tests, manage chronic heart diseases, and provide surgical care for congenital heart defects.

• Preventive Cardiology: Preventive cardiologists focus on reducing the risk of heart disease through lifestyle modifications, medication management, and controlling risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

• Cardiac Imaging: Cardiac imaging specialists use advanced imaging techniques, such as echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and CT scans, to diagnose and monitor heart diseases. Here, you will be crucial in assessing heart function and guiding treatment decisions.

• Structural Heart Disease: Specialists in structural heart disease manage conditions affecting the heart’s valves and chambers, such as valve stenosis or regurgitation. You will often perform minimally invasive procedures like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

• Adult Congenital Heart Disease: Cardiologists in this subspecialty care for adults born with congenital heart defects. You will address the unique challenges these patients face as they age and transition from paediatric to adult care.

• Cardiovascular Research: These cardiologists focus on research work on developing new treatments, understanding disease mechanisms, and improving patient outcomes through clinical trials and scientific studies.

Top 6 Factors Influencing a Cardiologist Salary in the US

Cardiologist salary in the US is influenced by various factors, such as experience, type of employer or your geographic location, making the compensation levels quite variable.

Understanding these factors can help both aspiring and practising cardiologists like you decide the course of your career paths and maximise your future earning potential. 

Hence, this section will highlight most of the primary factors contributing to the diverse salary landscape for cardiologists in the US.

1. Experience and Specialisation

Cardiologists with more years of practice typically earn higher salaries. Experienced cardiologists have built a reputation and a substantial patient base, increasing their earning potential.

Here’s an overview of a cardiologist salary in the US based on experience:

2. Geographic Location and Cost of Living

Geographic location plays a significant role in determining the salary you earn as a cardiologist in the US. Factors such as the cost of living, regional demand for healthcare services, and local economic conditions can lead to substantial variations in compensation. 

Urban areas and regions with high living costs, such as Alexandria, Naperville and Franklin, often offer you higher salaries to attract and retain top talent. Conversely, slightly less developed areas, such as Camden, Bloomington, and Nashua, may provide you with competitive wages coupled with other incentives to address specialist shortages. 

Look at this in-depth table to know which are the best locations for you to work as a Cardiologist in the US and how much you can expect to earn annually.

3. Type of Employer

As a cardiology specialist managing a private practice, you will often have the potential to earn more, especially if you own an established practice and have a large patient base.

Your salary as a cardiologist can vary widely depending on whether you work at a for-profit, non-profit, or government facility. For-profit hospitals typically offer higher salaries.

Working in educational settings might earn you less than in private practice or hospitals. Still, you can often earn additional income from teaching and research grants.

Here are some top organisations and hospitals and the salary you can expect to gain from them being a cardiologist in the US.

4. Work Hours and On-Call Duties

If you’re a cardiologist with heavier workloads and more on-call duties, generally, you will earn higher salaries due to the increased time commitment and responsibility. The average work hours of a cardiologist is 60 – 70 hours per week.

Those who are frequently on call or work in emergency settings often receive additional compensation.

5. Reimbursement Rates and Insurance

The rates at which cardiologists are reimbursed by insurance companies and government programs like Medicare can significantly impact income. Areas with higher reimbursement rates tend to offer better salaries.

Several factors, including Medicare policies, commercial insurance rates, and changes in healthcare regulations, influence reimbursement rates. As of 2024, the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule has set a conversion factor of INR 2.5k (USD 30). 

6. Market Trends and Economic Factors

Changes in healthcare policies, technological advancements, and economic conditions can affect cardiologist salaries. For example, increased emphasis on preventive care might shift demand and compensation structures.

Moreover, economic health, including inflation and the job market, can impact salaries. During economic downturns, salary growth may slow down. As a beginner cardiologist, you can see a reduction of 10% in your annual package if recent surveys are to be believed.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed career choices and negotiate better compensation packages, ensuring your salary reflects your expertise and contributions to the field.

Also Read: Pursuing DDS in USA after BDS: A Guide for International Students.

Comparative Analysis of Cardiologist Salaries: USA vs. Other Countries

Cardiology is one of the most prestigious and highly compensated medical specialities worldwide. However, cardiologists’ salaries can vary significantly depending on the country in which they practise. 

This comparative analysis examines the differences in cardiologist salaries between the USA and other countries, taking into account factors such as cost of living, healthcare systems, and demand for cardiology services. 

By understanding these variations, aspiring cardiologists and medical professionals can make more informed decisions about their career paths and potential relocation opportunities. 

Look at the table below to see what a cardiologist can expect to earn in different countries. For this comparison, we will be taking the profession of a physician.

As this table shows, working as a cardiologist in the US is one of the best and most financially rewarding career choices you can make. This is largely due to the country’s advanced healthcare systems and high demand for cardiologists and their services.

Top Cardiology Universities In The US

Choosing the right university to specialise in cardiology is crucial for an aspiring medical professional like you. Fortunately, the United States is home to some of the world’s most prestigious institutions offering top-notch cardiology programs. 

These universities provide exceptional education and training, extensive research opportunities, and access to cutting-edge medical technology. Hence, in this blog post section, we’ll explore the leading cardiology universities in the US, highlighting what sets them apart and why they are considered the best in the field. 

Here, look at some of the top cardiology universities in the US and their annual tuition fees.

ROI on Tuition Fees And Salary in The US

So, as you can clearly see, on average, you will spend approximately INR 57L (USD 68k) annually studying at a top cardiology university like Columbia University. If the course is for 5 years, you will most probably spend around INR 2.8Cr (USD 334k) for the total course.

Still, thanks to the amazing job openings available, you will break even that cost in no time.

The average annual salary of a Nuclear cardiologist in the US is INR 3Cr (USD 359k), so it will barely take you 1 – 2 years to cover the entire cost of your cardiology education in the US.

Requirements For Studying Cardiology In the US

Studying cardiology in the US is a rigorous but rewarding path that requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for patient care and medical research. With the right preparation and commitment, you can join the ranks of esteemed cardiologists contributing to heart health and treatment advancements.

You must score 350+ is your MCAT tests. Moreover, you must pass mandatory language proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and PTE with minimum scores of 6.5, 85 and 55, respectively.

Embarking on a journey to study cardiology in the US involves several crucial steps and meeting specific requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

1. Pre-Medical Education

Before specialising in cardiology, you must complete a bachelor’s degree, typically with a strong foundation in biological sciences, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

You must also complete all prerequisite courses required for medical school admission, often including biology, chemistry (both general and organic), physics, and sometimes biochemistry.

2. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

You must take and score competitively on the MCAT, which assesses your knowledge of biological and physical sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. A good MCAT score you should be targeting is 510+

3. Medical School Admission

Apply to accredited medical schools in the US through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). Competitive GPA and MCAT scores, around 3.5 and 510, respectively, strong letters of recommendation and relevant extracurricular activities are crucial.

Enroll in a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, which typically lasts four years. The curriculum includes two years of classroom-based education followed by two years of clinical rotations.

4. Residency Program

After obtaining your MD, you need to complete a residency in internal medicine, which generally lasts three years. During this time, you gain extensive clinical experience in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions.

During your residency, you must pass all parts of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) required to practise medicine in the US. The minimum USMLE score required is 350.

5. Cardiology Fellowship

Upon completing your internal medicine residency, you must apply for a cardiology fellowship program, which typically lasts an additional three years.

During the fellowship, you receive specialised training in cardiology, including clinical practise, research, and possibly sub-specialities like interventional cardiology or electrophysiology.

6. Board Certification

After completing your fellowship, you must pass the board certification exams administered by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) to become a certified cardiologist. The minimum passing score required is 366.

7. Licensing

Obtain a medical license in the state where you intend to practise. Each state has its own requirements and processes for licensure.

8. English Proficiency Tests

Most medical schools in the US require you to submit IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE test scores. The minimum acceptable score varies by institution. Some minimum score requirements are –

9. Communication Skills

Medical schools often look for applicants with strong communication skills. These are assessed through standardised test scores, interviews, and personal statements.

Moreover, proficiency in English is crucial during clinical rotations, where you will interact with patients, medical staff, and peers. Effective communication and understanding of medical terminology are essential in this case.

Wrapping Up

The cardiologist salary in the US is expected to remain competitive in 2024, reflecting the ongoing demand for specialised cardiovascular care. According to recent surveys, the demand for cardiologists in the US will increase by 46% until 2030, so becoming a cardiologist is a great career choice.

Regarding your actual salary, factors such as geographic location, level of experience, and subspecialIty will continue to play crucial roles in determining individual earnings. Urban areas and regions with higher living costs, like Nashville, Washington, and Chicago, will likely offer increased compensation to attract top talent. In contrast, rural areas like Philadelphia and Minneapolis may provide additional incentives to address specialist shortages. 

Furthermore, economic conditions and healthcare market trends will also influence your salary levels, with potential adjustments based on inflation and reimbursement rates. Invasive cardiologists will earn INR 3.7Cr annually, non-invasive cardiologists will earn INR 3.2Cr, and interventional cardiologists will earn an average annual salary of INR 4.3Cr. 

Hence, being a cardiologist in the US, you can look forward to a stable and lucrative career landscape driven by the critical need for heart health expertise in an ageing population.

If you are feeling inspired to chase your dream of studying MBBS in the US and becoming a cardiologist, but the cost of studying in the US is stopping you, worry no more. Leap Finance can help you. 

We offer education loans to students going to the US for studies at an interest rate of 11%. Book a call with our experts now to make your dream of earning a cardiologist salary in the US a reality. 

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