How to Become a Neurologist: Career Guide 2025
To become a neurologist, you need to complete a bachelor's degree (4 years), medical school (4 years), pass the USMLE or COMLEX exams, complete a 1-year internship, and finish a 3-year neurology residency. Neurologists earn a mean annual salary of $271,470 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with Medscape reporting an average of $343,000. They diagnose and treat disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system without performing surgery.
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The study of the human mind has long fascinated scientists and healers. From Plato's Allegory of the Cave to modern neurological studies, we've pursued a deeper understanding of the complicated hardware and intricate programming of our brains. As research has explored the brain's cognitive and biological functions, our understanding of the relationship between the brain and the central nervous system has grown exponentially.
The nervous system, which controls movement and transmits signals that convey sensation and sensory information to the brain, is an integral part of everything we do as human beings. When a disorder interferes with the health and proper operation of that system, the impact on everyday life can be devastating. That's where neurologists come in.
As experts in neurological disorders and diseases that affect the brain and nervous system, neurologists confront dysfunction and seek treatment solutions that improve this most crucial of bodily systems. While neurology doesn't have an answer to every problem or malady, those who work in this field contribute every single day to the body of knowledge that brings us closer to overcoming disease and disorder.
What Is a Neurologist?
A neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Unlike neurosurgeons, who perform operations on the brain and spine, neurologists primarily use nonsurgical approaches to help patients manage neurological conditions.
Neurologists are trained to understand the complex interactions between the nervous system and the rest of the body. They work with patients experiencing a wide range of symptoms, from headaches and dizziness to seizures and memory problems. Their expertise lies in identifying the underlying neurological causes of these symptoms and developing comprehensive treatment plans.
The nervous system can be divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (nerves throughout the body, including the limbs, extremities, and sensory organs). The nervous system also includes nerve sheaths, surrounding muscle tissue, and blood vessels. It can be further subdivided into the somatic system, which controls voluntary movements such as reaching for a glass of water, and the autonomic system, which controls unconscious functions such as breathing and heart rate.
Depending on their specialty, neurologists may treat disorders affecting every part of the nervous system or focus on specific areas. Some concentrate on conditions affecting the hands and feet, while others specialize in brain disorders. Many neurologists integrate psychiatric techniques and treatments into their practice, since numerous neurological disorders involve brain function and may benefit from combined approaches.
What Does a Neurologist Do?
A neurologist's responsibilities vary depending on their work setting and specific job description. They may conduct research and scientific studies to contribute to the body of academic knowledge in neurology, or they may spend their days directly interacting with and treating patients. Some study specific neurological conditions and develop new medical and drug treatment plans, while others explore combined medical and therapeutic approaches to help patients overcome disorders.
Neurologists are responsible for comprehensive patient care, which includes:
- Patient evaluation and diagnosis: Conducting thorough neurological examinations, reviewing medical histories, and ordering diagnostic tests
- Diagnostic testing: Interpreting results from lumbar punctures, computerized tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroencephalograms (EEGs), and other specialized tests
- Treatment planning: Developing personalized treatment strategies that may include medications, lifestyle modifications, and therapeutic interventions
- Patient monitoring: Following up with patients to assess treatment effectiveness and adjust care plans as needed
- Collaboration: Working closely with neurosurgeons, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals
- Patient education: Explaining complex neurological conditions to patients and families in understandable terms
- Research and teaching: Many neurologists contribute to clinical trials, publish findings, and educate medical students and residents
Conditions Neurologists Treat
Neurologists diagnose and provide treatment for a wide range of disorders, including:
- Stroke and cerebrovascular diseases: Conditions affecting blood flow to the brain
- Demyelinating diseases: Conditions like multiple sclerosis that affect nerve sheaths
- Movement disorders: Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia
- Headache and migraine disorders: Chronic migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches
- Infections: Meningitis, encephalitis, and other infections of the brain and central nervous system
- Degenerative disorders: Alzheimer's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), and other progressive conditions
- Epilepsy and seizure disorders: All types of seizure conditions requiring medication management
- Speech and language disorders: Neurological causes of communication difficulties
- Neuromuscular conditions: Myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophy, and peripheral neuropathy
- Spinal cord disorders: Conditions resulting from congenital issues or traumatic injury
Neurologists may specialize in one or multiple areas, such as critical care, childhood disorders, specific causes like stroke, or diseases like multiple sclerosis. While neurologists are responsible for diagnosis, assessment, and recommended treatment, they don't perform surgery. If surgery is recommended, they refer patients to a neurosurgeon.
Neurologist vs. Related Careers
Understanding the differences between neurologists and related medical specialists helps clarify career paths and patient care roles. Here's how neurologists compare to similar professions:
| Specialty | Education Required | Can Prescribe Medication? | Performs Surgery? | Primary Focus | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neurologist | Medical degree + 4-year residency | Yes | No | Diagnose and treat nervous system disorders medically | $271,470 |
| Neurosurgeon | Medical degree + 7-year residency | Yes | Yes | Surgical treatment of brain and spine conditions | $600,000+ |
| Neuropsychologist | Doctoral degree in psychology + fellowship | No (except in some states) | No | Assess cognitive function and behavior related to brain conditions | $103,900 |
| Psychiatrist | Medical degree + 4-year residency | Yes | No | Diagnose and treat mental health disorders | $249,760 |
| Neuroscientist | PhD in neuroscience or related field | No | No | Research brain structure, function, and development | $90,000-$120,000 |
What Is the Difference Between Neurology and Neuroscience?
While neurologists and neuroscientists work in closely related fields, there are distinct differences between the two professions. Neuroscientists focus on the structure and makeup of the brain, spinal cord, and nerve cells throughout the body. They have specialized knowledge in areas such as biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology, and anatomy, which are collectively known as neuroscience, a branch of biology. They typically spend their time in research-oriented careers investigating the function and development of the nervous system, and may or may not have a medical degree.
Neurologists, by contrast, are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of nervous system disorders. Diseases of the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, are a common area of specialization for neurologists, in addition to the treatment of disorders affecting the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. They commonly use diagnostic tools and evaluation methods, such as lumbar puncture, CT scans, MRI, and EEGs, to better understand the root causes of a patient's condition.
Where Do Neurologists Work?
Neurologists practice in diverse healthcare environments, each offering unique opportunities and challenges. Understanding these work settings helps prospective neurologists make informed career decisions about their future practice locations.
Hospital Employment (40% of Neurologists)
Many neurologists work in general medical and surgical hospitals, where they treat patients with acute neurological emergencies and manage inpatient consultations. Hospital-based neurologists often work as part of larger medical teams, collaborating with emergency physicians, surgeons, and other specialists. They typically have more structured schedules with defined shifts, though they may need to take calls for neurological emergencies.
Hospital employment offers stable salaries and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and malpractice coverage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that neurologists in general medical and surgical hospitals earn a mean annual salary of approximately $251,000. While hospital positions may offer slightly lower base salaries than private practice, they provide a work-life balance with less administrative responsibility.
Private Practice (30% of Neurologists)
Private practice neurologists operate their own offices or work in group practices with other physicians. This setting allows for greater autonomy in patient care decisions and practice management. Private practice neurologists typically see outpatients for consultations, follow-up appointments, and ongoing management of chronic neurological conditions.
According to BLS data, neurologists working in physician offices earn a mean annual salary of approximately $258,000. Private practice offers higher earning potential, particularly for experienced physicians who build strong patient bases, but it also requires managing business operations, staff, billing, and insurance negotiations. Work schedules in private practice can be more flexible, though many practitioners work long hours building their practices.
Academic Medical Centers (20% of Neurologists)
Academic medical centers combine patient care with research and teaching responsibilities. Neurologists in these settings treat patients, supervise residents and medical students, conduct clinical research, and contribute to scientific publications. These positions appeal to physicians interested in advancing neurological knowledge while maintaining clinical practice.
Academic positions typically offer lower base salaries than private practice, generally ranging from $200,000 to $250,000, but provide additional income opportunities through research grants, speaking engagements, and consulting. The intellectual stimulation, access to cutting-edge research, and the opportunity to shape the next generation of neurologists make academic positions highly rewarding for many physicians.
Outpatient Care Centers (10% of Neurologists)
Some neurologists work in specialized outpatient care centers focused on neurological conditions. These facilities often offer comprehensive diagnostic services and specialized treatments. The BLS reports that neurologists in outpatient care centers earn the highest mean annual salaries at approximately $406,000, reflecting the specialized nature of these practices and the typically higher patient volumes.
Work Environment Comparison
| Setting | Mean Salary | Work Schedule | Autonomy | Key Benefits | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $406,000 | Structured business hours | Moderate | Highest salary, specialized focus | High patient volume |
| Private Practice | $258,000 | Flexible but long hours | High | Independence, direct patient relationships | Business management, financial risk |
| Hospitals | $251,000 | Shift work, on-call rotation | Moderate | Stable income, comprehensive benefits | Less schedule flexibility, acute cases |
| Academic Centers | $200,000-$250,000 | Variable with teaching duties | Moderate to high | Research opportunities, teaching, prestige | Lower base salary, multiple responsibilities |
Neurologists also engage in research and teaching across various settings. They may conduct scientific research in colleges, universities, private industry, or government agencies, contributing to our understanding of nervous system disorders. Many participate in clinical research and clinical trials to test new treatments and medications. Some neurologists work for pharmaceutical companies, developing new therapeutic approaches, while others focus on education, training the next generation of neurologists.
A Day in the Life of a Neurologist
A typical day for a neurologist varies significantly based on their practice setting, but most follow a general pattern of patient consultations, diagnostic work, and administrative responsibilities.
Morning Routine (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Most neurologists start their day early, reviewing patient charts and test results before seeing patients. Hospital-based neurologists may begin with morning rounds, checking on inpatients and consulting with other physicians about new cases. Private practice neurologists typically start seeing outpatients by 8:00 or 9:00 AM.
Morning hours are usually dedicated to scheduled patient appointments. A neurologist might see 10-15 patients during this time, with appointments ranging from 15-minute follow-ups for stable patients to 60-minute initial consultations for new patients with complex symptoms. Each visit involves taking detailed medical histories, performing neurological examinations, reviewing test results, and discussing treatment options.
Midday Activities (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM)
Lunch breaks are often working lunches, during which neurologists review lab results, return patient phone calls, complete documentation, and coordinate care with other specialists. This time may also include consultations with neurosurgeons about patients who may need surgical intervention.
Afternoon Sessions (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Afternoon schedules typically mirror morning activities, with additional patient appointments and diagnostic procedures. Neurologists might perform or interpret electroencephalograms (EEGs), electromyography (EMG) tests, or nerve conduction studies. They also review brain and spine imaging studies, looking for abnormalities that could explain patient symptoms.
Academic neurologists may dedicate afternoon hours to teaching responsibilities, leading grand rounds presentations, supervising residents, or participating in research activities. Those involved in clinical trials spend time monitoring study participants and collecting data.
Evening and On-Call Responsibilities
While private practice neurologists typically finish their clinical days by 6:00 PM, hospital-based neurologists may work later or take on-call shifts. During on-call periods, neurologists must be available to evaluate emergency cases, such as acute strokes, status epilepticus (prolonged seizures), or sudden neurological deterioration.
Most neurologists spend additional time in the evenings completing patient notes, reviewing medical literature to stay current with new treatments, and preparing for the next day's cases. Administrative tasks, including insurance authorizations and peer-to-peer discussions with insurance companies, often extend into evening hours.
Work-Life Balance Considerations
Neurology offers a better work-life balance compared to many other medical specialties. While neurologists work long hours, particularly in the early years of practice, many find the specialty allows for predictable schedules once established. Private practice neurologists have more control over their schedules, while hospital-based positions offer defined shifts with shared on-call responsibilities.
How to Become a Neurologist
The path to becoming a neurologist is rigorous and requires dedication, but it's also deeply rewarding. The complete journey takes a minimum of 12 years after high school, including undergraduate education, medical school, and specialized training. Here's a detailed roadmap:
Step 1: Complete a Bachelor's Degree (4 years)
Your journey begins with earning a bachelor's degree in a field that prepares you for medical school. The most common degree programs for students who hope to attend medical school include:
- Biology: Focuses heavily on anatomy, physiology, and the makeup of organisms and their systems. You'll study plant and animal life, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other organisms, learning about evolution and related concepts.
- Chemistry: Examines atoms, molecules, and the basic building blocks that comprise substances. You'll study how different substances and molecules interact, change one another, and form new compounds.
- Physics: Studies the laws of matter, including properties related to light, sound, magnetism, and electricity. Physics covers everything from the smallest fundamental building blocks of the universe to the universe on a galactic scale.
- Neuroscience: Provides focused preparation for neurology by studying brain structure, function, and neurological processes from the start.
- Pre-Med: Pre-med students take a variety of courses designed to meet medical school entrance requirements. This track ensures you cover every requirement without having to coordinate separate major requirements. Common courses include microbiology, biochemistry, and human anatomy.
During your undergraduate years, maintain a strong GPA (3.5 or higher), engage in volunteer work or clinical shadowing, and participate in research if possible. These experiences strengthen your medical school application.
Step 2: Take the MCAT and Apply to Medical School
Once you earn your bachelor's degree and complete all prerequisite courses, you must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge of biological sciences, physical sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
With your MCAT score, you can submit applications to medical schools of your choice through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). Competitive applications include strong MCAT scores, high GPAs, meaningful healthcare experience, compelling personal statements, and excellent letters of recommendation. Consider learning a foreign language or pursuing research publications to strengthen your application.
Step 3: Complete Medical School (4 years)
Medical school is divided into two phases. The first two years focus on classroom-based learning, covering basic medical sciences, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine. You'll learn about all body systems, disease processes, and treatment approaches through lectures, labs, and small group sessions.
The final two years consist of clinical rotations at teaching hospitals. During these rotations, you'll work directly with patients under the supervision of experienced physicians, gaining hands-on experience in various medical specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatry, and, importantly, neurology. This exposure helps you confirm your interest in becoming a neurologist while developing essential clinical skills.
Step 4: Pass Medical Licensing Examinations
During and after medical school, you must pass licensing examinations to practice medicine. You'll take either the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX).
The USMLE consists of three steps: Step 1 (taken after the second year of medical school, testing basic science knowledge), Step 2 (taken during the fourth year, testing clinical knowledge and skills), and Step 3 (taken during residency, testing clinical management abilities). Passing all three steps is required for medical licensure.
Step 5: Complete a One-Year Internship
After medical school, you'll complete a one-year internship (also called the first year of residency) in internal medicine or a transitional year program. This foundational year provides broad clinical experience in managing hospitalized patients with various medical conditions, preparing you for specialized neurology training.
Step 6: Complete Neurology Residency (3 years)
Following your internship year, you'll complete three years of specialized neurology residency training. During residency, you'll rotate through various neurology subspecialties, including stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, neuromuscular disease, and neuro-oncology. You'll learn to perform and interpret neurological examinations, order and analyze diagnostic tests, and manage complex neurological conditions.
Residency involves a mix of inpatient and outpatient clinical work, attending educational conferences, and participating in research projects. You'll gradually take on increasing responsibility for patient care under the supervision of attending neurologists. Most programs also require participation in teaching medical students and presenting at case conferences.
Step 7: Optional Fellowship Training (1-2 years)
After completing neurology residency, you may choose to pursue additional fellowship training in a subspecialty. Fellowship training typically lasts one to two years and provides expertise in specific areas such as epilepsy, stroke, movement disorders, neuromuscular medicine, neuro-oncology, or neurocritical care. Subspecialty training often leads to higher salaries and more focused practice opportunities.
Step 8: Obtain Board Certification
Following residency, neurologists can become board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Board certification requires passing a comprehensive written examination that tests your knowledge across all areas of neurology. Many employers prefer or require board certification, and it demonstrates your expertise to patients and colleagues.
Board certification must be maintained through ongoing continuing medical education and periodic recertification examinations.
Education Requirements Detail
Undergraduate Prerequisites
Medical schools require specific prerequisite courses regardless of your major. These typically include:
- Biology with lab (2 semesters)
- General chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
- Organic chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
- Physics with lab (2 semesters)
- English or writing-intensive courses (2 semesters)
- Mathematics, including calculus and statistics (1-2 semesters)
- Biochemistry (recommended)
- Psychology and sociology (increasingly required)
Medical School Curriculum Highlights
Medical schools follow a standard curriculum that prepares students for all specialties. Key components include:
Pre-clinical years (Years 1-2): Anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and an introduction to clinical medicine. You'll learn physical examination skills and patient communication.
Clinical years (Years 3-4): Required rotations in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, psychiatry, and family medicine, plus elective rotations where you can gain additional neurology experience.
Residency Training Structure
Neurology residency programs follow Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) standards. Training includes:
- Inpatient neurology consultations and ward management
- Outpatient clinic experience
- Neurophysiology training (EEG, EMG interpretation)
- Neuroradiology interpretation
- Emergency neurology
- Research project or quality improvement initiatives
- Regular didactic lectures and case conferences
Total Time and Financial Investment
The complete path to becoming a practicing neurologist requires significant time and financial investment:
- Total education time: 12 years minimum (4 years undergraduate + 4 years medical school + 4 years postgraduate training)
- Undergraduate costs: $40,000-$200,000, depending on institution
- Medical school costs: $200,000-$300,000 for public schools; $280,000-$330,000 for private schools
- Residency: You earn a salary during residency (approximately $60,000-$70,000/year), but this is significantly less than attending physician salaries
Many neurologists graduate with substantial student loan debt, but various loan-repayment programs exist, including Public Service Loan Forgiveness for those working at qualifying nonprofit hospitals or academic institutions.
Neurologist Salary & Job Outlook
Neurologists are among the well-compensated medical specialists, reflecting the extensive training required and the complex nature of their work. Salary varies significantly based on experience level, geographic location, practice setting, and subspecialty focus.
National Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2023 data (the most recent available), neurologists earn a mean annual wage of $271,470 nationally. The BLS reports that approximately 9,350 neurologists are employed across the United States, with significant variation in compensation based on location and employment type.
However, the BLS notes that the median wage for neurologists is $239,200 or more per year, as many earn salaries at the upper end of the physician compensation scale. Industry surveys provide additional context: Medscape's 2024 Neurologist Compensation Report indicates that neurologists earn an average of $343,000 annually when considering total compensation, including bonuses and incentive payments.
Salary by Employment Setting
Where you practice significantly affects your earning potential. According to BLS data, the highest-paying employers of neurologists are:
- Outpatient care centers: $406,000 mean annual wage
- Offices of physicians: $258,000 mean annual wage
- General medical and surgical hospitals: $251,000 mean annual wage
Hospital-employed positions often provide stable salaries with comprehensive benefits packages, but may limit earning potential compared to private practice or partnership opportunities. Academic positions typically offer lower base salaries but provide additional income opportunities through research grants, speaking engagements, and consulting work. Private practice neurologists may have higher earning potential but face greater business responsibilities and financial risks.
Geographic Salary Variations
Location plays a crucial role in neurologist compensation. Coastal regions and major metropolitan areas typically offer higher salaries to offset higher living costs, while rural areas may offer competitive packages with additional benefits, such as housing assistance, student loan forgiveness, and signing bonuses, to attract specialists to underserved areas.
| State | Mean Annual Salary | Employment Level |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $302,460 | 410 neurologists |
| Florida | $290,550 | 680 neurologists |
| New York | $283,190 | 1,220 neurologists |
| Texas | $275,700 | 640 neurologists |
| Massachusetts | $238,390 | 340 neurologists |
| Vermont | $234,230 | 60 neurologists |
| California | $194,000 | 870 neurologists |
| Pennsylvania | $152,600 | 1,220 neurologists |
The highest-paying metropolitan areas include Memphis ($377,160), Cincinnati ($458,250), and Denver ($455,820), demonstrating that strong compensation exists outside traditional coastal markets.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience directly correlates with earning potential across all neurology subspecialties. Entry-level neurologists typically start at lower salary ranges but can expect significant increases as they develop expertise and build professional reputations:
- Entry-level (Years 1-3): $200,000-$250,000 annually
- Mid-career (Years 4-10): $250,000-$320,000 annually
- Experienced (Years 10+): $320,000-$450,000+ annually
Mid-career neurologists often see the most dramatic salary growth as they establish themselves in their communities, build referral networks, and develop subspecialty expertise.
Bonuses and Incentive Compensation
According to Medscape's 2024 report, approximately 65% of neurologists are eligible for compensation bonuses. The average annual incentive compensation for neurologists is around $29,000, representing approximately 10% of their total compensation. Incentive structures vary by employer and may be based on productivity measures, patient satisfaction scores, quality metrics, or participation in value-based care programs.
Job Outlook and Demand
The demand for neurologists continues to grow, driven by an aging population and increasing prevalence of neurological conditions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of physicians and surgeons, including neurologists, to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Several factors contribute to strong job prospects:
- Aging population: As baby boomers age, rates of stroke, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other age-related neurological conditions increase, creating greater demand for neurological care.
- Improved diagnostics: Advances in neuroimaging and diagnostic techniques lead to earlier detection of neurological conditions, increasing patient referrals to neurologists.
- Subspecialty demand: Certain subspecialties, particularly stroke neurology and neurocritical care, face significant workforce shortages.
- Geographic disparities: Rural and underserved areas face critical shortages of neurologists, creating opportunities for physicians willing to practice in these locations.
- Telemedicine expansion: The growth of teleneurology services expands access to care and creates new practice opportunities.
Medscape's 2024 report indicates that neurologists saw a 10% increase in compensation from the previous year, reflecting strong market demand and the critical nature of neurological services.
Neurologist Specializations
After completing general neurology residency, many neurologists pursue subspecialty fellowship training. Subspecialization allows neurologists to develop deep expertise in specific conditions, often translating to higher compensation and greater career satisfaction.
High-Demand Subspecialties
Neuro-Oncology: Neuro-oncologists specialize in brain tumors and cancers affecting the nervous system. They work closely with neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists to provide comprehensive cancer care. This subspecialty offers the highest compensation, with salaries averaging $341,000 and starting pay around $230,000.
Neurocritical Care: These specialists manage severe neurological emergencies like stroke, traumatic brain injury, and status epilepticus in intensive care settings. The demanding, high-stakes nature of this field justifies elevated compensation, with salaries around $270,000 annually and starting salaries of $215,000. These positions are typically hospital-based and involve challenging cases requiring immediate decision-making.
Vascular Neurology/Stroke: Stroke neurologists specialize in cerebrovascular diseases, including acute stroke treatment, stroke prevention, and the management of conditions such as carotid stenosis. With stroke being a leading cause of death and disability, these specialists are in high demand. Many work in comprehensive stroke centers and may perform interventional procedures.
Epilepsy: Epileptologists focus exclusively on seizure disorders, managing patients with difficult-to-control epilepsy. They interpret long-term EEG monitoring, adjust complex medication regimens, and work with neurosurgeons to evaluate patients for epilepsy surgery. This subspecialty requires additional fellowship training and offers rewarding long-term patient relationships.
Movement Disorders: These neurologists specialize in Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and other movement abnormalities. They often perform deep-brain stimulation programming and botulinum toxin injections. The subspecialty offers intellectual challenges and the opportunity to significantly improve patients' quality of life through both medical and procedural treatments.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS specialists manage this complex, chronic autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system. They earn an average of $267,000, with new graduates starting at $210,000. The field requires expertise in disease-modifying therapies and offers the reward of building long-term relationships with patients while helping improve their quality of life.
Neuromuscular Medicine: These specialists diagnose and treat disorders of the muscles, nerves, and neuromuscular junction, including ALS, myasthenia gravis, and peripheral neuropathies. They perform and interpret electrodiagnostic studies (EMG/NCS) and often conduct muscle biopsies.
Pediatric Neurology: Child neurologists diagnose and treat neurological disorders in children, including seizures, developmental delays, cerebral palsy, and genetic neurological conditions. They earn $225,000-$250,000 annually, with starting salaries around $180,000. The emotional demands of treating young patients and their families are balanced by the rewarding nature of the work.
Sleep Medicine: Neurologists with sleep medicine training diagnose and treat sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and restless leg syndrome. They interpret sleep studies and provide comprehensive management of sleep disorders.
Behavioral Neurology: These specialists focus on cognitive and behavioral changes related to neurological conditions, including dementia, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases. They often work closely with neuropsychologists to assess and manage cognitive disorders.
General Neurology
Many neurologists choose to practice general neurology without subspecializing. General neurologists handle a wide range of conditions, including headaches, epilepsy, stroke, and neuropathy. With an average salary of $244,000 and starting pay around $200,000, this path offers stable income and variety without intense specialization, making it an excellent choice for those valuing work-life balance and diverse clinical experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a neurologist?
It takes a minimum of 12 years after high school to become a practicing neurologist: 4 years of undergraduate education, 4 years of medical school, and 4 years of postgraduate training (1 year internship + 3 years neurology residency). If you pursue fellowship training in a subspecialty, add another 1-2 years, making the total 13-14 years.
What's the difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon?
Neurologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat nervous system disorders using medications, lifestyle modifications, and other nonsurgical approaches. Neurosurgeons are surgeons who perform operations on the brain, spine, and nerves. Neurologists complete 4 years of postgraduate training, while neurosurgeons complete 7 years. Neurologists often work with neurosurgeons, referring patients who need surgical intervention while providing pre- and post-operative medical management.
Do neurologists perform surgery?
No, neurologists don't perform surgery. They focus on nonsurgical diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. If a patient needs surgery, neurologists refer them to neurosurgeons. However, some neurologists perform minimally invasive procedures like lumbar punctures (spinal taps), botulinum toxin injections for movement disorders or headaches, and nerve blocks. Interventional neurologists, a newer subspecialty, perform catheter-based procedures for stroke treatment.
Can I become a neurologist with a psychology degree?
Yes, you can become a neurologist with an undergraduate degree in psychology, as long as you complete all required pre-medical coursework (biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and mathematics). However, you'll still need to attend medical school and complete a neurology residency. A background in psychology can be advantageous when treating patients with neurological conditions that affect behavior and cognition. If you're interested in the intersection of brain function and behavior without becoming a physician, consider becoming a neuropsychologist instead.
What is the job outlook for neurologists?
The job outlook for neurologists is excellent. Employment of physicians and surgeons, including neurologists, is projected to grow faster than average, driven by an aging population with increasing rates of stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological conditions. Rural and underserved areas face critical neurologist shortages, and certain subspecialties like stroke neurology and neurocritical care have particularly high demand.
How much do neurologists make in different states?
Neurologist salaries vary significantly by state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2023 data, the highest-paying states include Tennessee ($302,460), Florida ($290,550), New York ($283,190), and Texas ($275,700). Some states like California ($194,000) and Pennsylvania ($152,600) report lower mean wages, though these figures may not capture the full compensation pictur,e including bonuses and benefits. Cost of living should be considered when comparing state salaries.
What are the most common conditions neurologists treat?
Neurologists most frequently treat headaches and migraines, stroke and cerebrovascular disease, epilepsy and seizure disorders, movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and demyelinating diseases, peripheral neuropathy, memory disorders and dementia, and neuromuscular conditions. The specific mix of conditions varies based on practice setting and any subspecialty focus.
Is there a shortage of neurologists?
Yes, there is a significant shortage of neurologists in the United States, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The American Academy of Neurology has reported that the demand for neurologists exceeds supply, with some patients waiting months for appointments. This shortage creates excellent job opportunities for new neurologists and often results in competitive compensation packages and signing bonuses, especially for those willing to practice in underserved regions.
What's the difference between a neurologist and a neuropsychologist?
Neurologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat diseases of the nervous system and can prescribe medications. Neuropsychologists are psychologists with doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) who specialize in assessing and treating cognitive and behavioral effects of neurological conditions. Neuropsychologists perform detailed cognitive testing and provide psychological interventions, but generally can't prescribe medications (except in certain states with additional training). The two professionals often work together, with neuropsychologists providing detailed cognitive assessments that help neurologists with diagnosis and treatment planning.
Key Takeaways
- Education pathway: Becoming a neurologist requires 12+ years of training after high school, including a bachelor's degree, medical school, and 4 years of postgraduate residency training.
- Strong compensation: Neurologists earn a mean annual salary of $271,470 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with Medscape reporting an average of $343,000 when including bonuses and incentives.
- Nonsurgical specialists: Neurologists diagnose and treat nervous system disorders medically without performing surgery, referring surgical cases to neurosurgeons while managing pre- and post-operative care.
- Diverse work settings: Neurologists practice in hospitals, private offices, academic medical centers, and outpatient care centers, with compensation ranging from $200,000 to over $400,000 depending on setting and subspecialty.
- Excellent job outlook: The aging population and increasing prevalence of neurological conditions create strong demand for neurologists, particularly in rural areas and certain subspecialties like stroke and neurocritical care.
- Subspecialty opportunities: Fellowship training in areas such as neuro-oncology, neurocritical care, epilepsy, or movement disorders offers higher compensation and specialized expertise.
- Work-life balance: Compared to many medical specialties, neurology offers more predictable schedules once established, with private practice allowing greater schedule flexibility.
Neurology External Resources and Organizations
These professional organizations provide valuable resources for aspiring and practicing neurologists:
- American Academy of Neurology - The premier professional organization for neurologists, offering continuing education, research resources, and career guidance
- American Neurological Association - Focuses on advancing neurological research and education
- World Federation of Neurology - International organization promoting neurological science and practice worldwide
- American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology - Provides board certification for neurologists
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2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other; Psychiatric Techs; Psychiatrists; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors; Marriage & Family Therapists; and Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.