As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Head of ICU in the United States is $154,200 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $74.
However, a Head of ICU's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Head of ICU's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Head of ICU's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Head of ICU | $148,398 |
| Intermediate Level Head of ICU | $149,094 |
| Senior Level Head of ICU | $150,719 |
| Specialist Level Head of ICU | $155,103 |
| Expert Level Head of ICU | $158,715 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Head of ICUs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Coordination | 4.08% |
| Basic Life Support | 4.08% |
| Wound Care | 4.08% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Ambulatory Care
|
$164,994 |
7%
|
|
Leadership Development
|
$164,994 |
7%
|
|
Obstetrics
|
$164,994 |
7%
|
|
Cardiac Care
|
$164,994 |
7%
|
|
Alignment
|
$163,452 |
6%
|
|
Ambulatory Surgery
|
$161,910 |
5%
|
Understanding how a Head of ICU's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Salaries for a Head of ICU can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $135,790 in 2023 to around $134,613 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Head of ICU salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $135,790 |
| 2024 | $136,017 |
| 2025 | $134,613 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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ICU surgeons, or Heads of ICU, typically earn between $137,780 and $187,280 annually, with a median salary of $161,850. While salaries can vary significantly by location and experience, this range provides a general idea of the compensation for this critical role in healthcare.
As of now, the salary for a Head of ICU in the United States ranges from $137,780 to $187,280 annually, with a median salary of $161,850. This translates to approximately $66.19 to $89.96 per hour, or $11,482 to $15,607 monthly. The role commands a significantly higher salary compared to an ICU consultant.
The highest-paid surgeon is typically a neurosurgeon, specializing in surgeries of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Aspiring neurosurgeons must complete a rigorous seven-year residency. While their average annual compensation is significantly high, the salary data for a Head of ICU shows a range from $137,780 to $187,280, with a mid-salary of $161,850.
A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is a highly trained nursing specialist who administers anesthesia during surgeries. While the median salary for CRNAs can reach up to $195,610, the salary data for the Head of ICU indicates a range from $137,780 to $187,280, with a mid-salary of $161,850.
An ICU manager oversees the Intensive Care Unit, ensuring compliance with healthcare standards and effective scheduling. Responsibilities include managing daily operations and facilitating communication within the acute care department. The salary for this role ranges from $137,780 to $187,280, with a mid-point of $161,850, reflecting the critical nature of the position.
ICU charge nurses typically earn between $137,780 and $187,280 annually, with a median salary of $161,850. While some cities like San Francisco and Santa Clara offer competitive salaries around $100,000, the overall compensation for ICU charge nurses reflects their critical role in healthcare.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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