← 2026 Salary Report / Oncology
Hematology-oncology is the dominant practice model. Drug revenue and clinical trials drive practice economics.
Training: 6 years post-medical school | 5-Year Change: +10% | Range (25th-75th): $330,000-$540,000
Medical oncologists start at $340,000-$400,000. Earnings grow as patient panels establish and chemotherapy volumes increase. Academic oncologists with NIH funding can supplement salary with grant-supported time. Community oncologists earn 20-35% more than academic peers. Radiation oncologists earn similar ranges but face slower growth.
Community oncology practices in the Southeast, Midwest, and Sun Belt pay above national averages. Radiation oncology demand varies significantly by region and hospital system investment in proton therapy vs. traditional linear accelerators.
Employed oncologists earn $370,000-$460,000. Private practice oncologists who own their infusion center earn $500,000-$700,000+ - the buy-and-bill model for chemotherapy drugs generates significant drug margin revenue. This is the most consequential employed-vs-private gap factor in oncology.
Three highest-leverage actions: (1) In-office infusion center ownership - the buy-and-bill model is the primary driver of oncology practice income. (2) Clinical trial enrollment adds per-patient revenue and reputation. (3) Community oncology generally pays $100,000-$200,000 more than academic oncology; weigh research interest against income. Use the PhysicianWealth Salary Benchmark for a personalized comparison.
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