Choosing the right state to practice orthopedic medicine can influence career satisfaction, earning potential, and work–life balance. Whether you’re an early-career orthopedic medicine specialist building a patient base or an experienced provider looking to relocate, location matters.

The list below features the top 10 states that offer the most favorable conditions for orthopedists—blending salary potential, growth opportunities (clinical, stewardship, and public-health roles), and supportive health care and public-health infrastructure.

1. Wisconsin — Wisconsin offers the highest average wage for orthopedic surgeon wage at approximately $547,000, supported by strong demand with an estimated 410 surgeons and a location quotient near 1.5. The state is ranked among the best for physicians to practice, with low malpractice and insurance costs and a wide range of recreational options, including a prominent sports and beer culture. Major systems such as UW Health and Aurora Health Care provide extensive orthopedic services and academic opportunities.

2. Vermont — Among the highest-paying states for orthopedic surgeons, with estimated wages near $472,000 and strong demand reflected in roughly 60 surgeons and a location quotient of about 2.1. The state’s outdoor recreation, low population density, and close-knit medical community support rural and small-city practice with meaningful autonomy. The University of Vermont Medical Center serves as a regional referral and teaching center, offering access to complex cases and research opportunities.

3. Illinois — Offers an average orthopedic surgeon wage of approximately $329,000, supported by nationally recognized orthopedic programs at Rush University Medical Center, Northwestern Medicine, and UChicago Medicine that attract complex cases and provide extensive subspecialty and research opportunities.

4. Nebraska — Among the higher-paying states for orthopedic surgeons, with estimated wages near $426,000 and practice environments that often offer broad procedural exposure, including trauma and sports medicine. Nebraska Medicine and CHI Health provide academic and community opportunities, complemented by family-friendly cities and comparatively affordable housing.

5. Arizona — Among the highest-paying states for orthopedic surgeons, with recent estimates near $469,000 and strong demand driven by rapid population growth in Phoenix, Tucson, and Scottsdale. High-volume joint and sports medicine needs are common, supported by major programs at Mayo Clinic Arizona, Banner Health, and Dignity Health. The sunny climate, extensive outdoor recreation, and flat income tax further enhance after-tax earning potential compared with coastal markets.

6. Michigan — Among the higher-paying states for orthopedic surgeons, with average earnings near $447,000 and strong clinical volume supported by major centers such as University of Michigan Health, Henry Ford Health, and Corewell Health, which are active in musculoskeletal research and robotic-assisted surgery. Lower housing costs and access to the Great Lakes and major sports markets further enhance quality of life.

7. Florida — Offers strong demand for orthopedic surgeons, with an estimated 950 practicing in the state and a location quotient just above one, driven by retirees and medical tourism. Average wages are about $397,000, strengthened by the absence of a state income tax. Major systems such as Mayo Clinic Florida, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Orlando Health, and large private groups provide extensive clinical and affiliation opportunities.

8. New Jersey — Shows strong orthopedic demand with an estimated 620 surgeons and a location quotient near 1.6, aided by referral networks from nearby New York City and Philadelphia. Major systems such as Hackensack Meridian, RWJBarnabas, and Atlantic Health operate extensive spine, sports, and pediatric programs. Average wages of about $339,000 are solid, though not among the highest nationally.

9. New Hampshire — Among the strongest-demand environments for orthopedic surgeons, with an estimated 170 practicing in the state and a location quotient near 2.7, indicating low saturation and high need. Average wages are about $337,000, with practice options ranging from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center’s academic program to community hospitals and rural clinics offering broad scope and autonomy. The absence of a state income tax, low crime rates, and easy access to New England outdoor recreation further enhance work–life balance.

10. Ohio — Offers an average orthopedic wage of about $274,000, with an estimated 550 surgeons and a location quotient just above one, reflecting steady demand and a cost of living that enhances earnings. Major systems such as Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, and University Hospitals provide access to advanced procedures, fellowships, and high-complexity care. Surgeons can choose among major metros like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati or smaller communities across the state.

Sources: Becker’s Spine Review, Era Locums