As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Residency Program Director in the United States is $132,364 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $64.
However, a Residency Program Director's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Residency Program Director'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 Residency Program Director'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Physician Residency Coordinator | 2-4 years | $54,465 |
| Residency Program Director | 4+ years | $132,364 |
| Head of Residency Program | 4+ years | $269,183 |
| Chief Academic Officer - Healthcare | 4+ years | $432,946 |
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 Residency Program Directors. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Residency Program Director'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 April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Residency Program Director, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Services Director - Healthcare | $193,456 | 46% |
| Head of Residency Program | $269,183 | 103% |
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A Residency Program Director's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Residency Program Director earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Residency Program Director is $166,951.
The highest pay for Residency Program Director is $158,333.
The lowest pay for Residency Program Director is $101,822.
Directs the administration of the physician residency program of a healthcare organization. Develops and implements program policies, goals, and objectives that ensure compliance with accreditation standards set by governing bodies such as the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Collaborates with faculty members and other stakeholders to develop and deliver a comprehensive curriculum covering the medical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional competencies required for physicians. Implements evaluation mechanisms and processes to conduct regular assessments, provide feedback, monitor performance, and support residents' well-being and academic progress. Participates in the recruitment and selection process of resident physicians. Requires a MD. Requires State License to Practice Medicine. Typically reports to senior management. Typically manages through subordinate managers and professionals in larger groups of moderate complexity. Provides input to strategic decisions that affect the functional area of responsibility. May give input into developing the budget. Typically requires 3+ years of managerial experience. Capable of resolving escalated issues arising from operations and requiring coordination with other departments.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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