Exploring the Highest Paid and In Demand Locum Tenens Roles in the U.S. in August 2025

Locum Tenens Pay Specialty 2025

Exploring the Highest Paid and In Demand Locum Tenens Roles in the U.S. in August 2025

As the healthcare landscape evolves, the demand for locum tenens professionals continues to grow. Whether you are a seasoned physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, understanding the financial opportunities available can be instrumental in helping you to make your career decisions. According to the latest data from ZipRecruiter, let’s take a deeper look at the highest paid locum tenens roles in the United States, as well as the specialties currently in demand, where they are most needed, and their salary ranges.

Locum Tenens Specialties in Demand

Based on current data, several medical specialties are experiencing a significant demand for locum tenens professionals. Here are some of the top specialties:

1. Emergency Medicine: Given the unpredictable nature of emergencies and rising patient volumes, emergency medicine practitioners are highly sought after around the country. 

2. Psychiatry: The growing awareness of mental health has led to an increase in demand for psychiatric services, creating lucrative temporary opportunities in this field.

3. Anesthesiology: Anesthesiologists are critical in various surgical settings, making their services highly valuable, especially in facilities facing staffing shortages including hospitals and healthcare systems serving rural populations.

4. Family Medicine: As primary care providers, family medicine specialists are essential in many communities, creating ample locum tenens opportunities across the country in major cities, towns, and remote locations.

5. Hospitalists: With the ever-increasing patient load, hospitalists play a vital role in inpatient care, leading to a steady demand for locum tenens physicians in this specialty.

State-by-State Demand

The demand for locum tenens roles varies widely across the U.S. Some states are experiencing a higher need than others, primarily due to differences in population density, healthcare access, average age of the population, and changing demographics.

The demand for locum tenens roles varies widely across the U.S., reflecting the diverse healthcare landscape and the unique needs of each region. Some states are experiencing a significantly higher need than others, primarily due to differences in population density, healthcare access, and changing demographics, such as age distribution and the prevalence of specific medical conditions.

According to ZipRecruiter, in 11 states, the typical salary for a Locum Tenens job is above the national average. Topping the list is New York, with Washington and Massachusetts close behind in second and third. Massachusetts beats the national average by 7.3%, and New York furthers that trend with another $29,081 (9.3%) above the $311,794. With these states paying on average above the national average, the opportunities for economic advancement by changing locations as a Locum Tenens appears to be exceedingly fruitful. The District of Columbia (Washington, DC), and Hawaii are close behind, only by a few percentage points.

STATE ANNUAL SALARY

New York $340,875
Washington $334,762
Massachusetts $334,485
District of Columbia $334,251
Hawaii $330,194

The top five states have the most significant demand for locum tenens clinicians, largely due to their large populations and diverse healthcare needs that require specialized and flexible staffing solutions. Increased need in fields like family medicine and geriatrics are particularly relevant in light of the states’ rapidly aging population and the increasing demand for senior healthcare services and age-related conditions that require specialized treatment and care. Urban areas in these states continue to attract locum tenens professionals across various specialties as healthcare delivery systems adapt to meet the complex urban demands, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective care in a bustling and diverse metropolitan environment.

Current Salary Insights

Salaries for locum tenens roles can vary significantly based on specialty, region, and the specific healthcare facility. According to recent data from ZipRecruiter, here’s a general overview of what you can expect for the highest paying positions:

Emergency Medicine Physicians: Average salaries can exceed $200,000 annually, with many locum roles paying upwards of $300 per hour.

Psychiatrists: Typically command rates of $150 to $250 per hour, translating to substantial annual earnings.

Anesthesiologists: On average, they earn between $250,000 to $400,000 annually, based on experience and location.

Family Medicine Doctors: Can earn approximately $150,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on their commitments and settings.

Hospitalists: Generally enjoy competitive pay rates ranging from $150,000 to over $250,000, influenced by location and demand.

Explore Your Locum Tenens Opportunities

Whether you’re looking to work in bustling urban centers or serene rural settings, locum tenens roles offer unmatched flexibility and competitive compensation. For those interested in discovering opportunities across town or the country, Annashae is here to assist you. Our platform provides access to full-time, part-time, permanent, and temporary positions with hospitals and healthcare systems tailored to fit your needs. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your career in healthcare while enjoying the benefits that come with locum positions. Visit Annashae today to explore your options!





Locum Tenens Salaries 2025