Choosing the right state to practice otolaryngology can influence career satisfaction, earning potential, and work–life balance. Whether you’re an early-career otolaryngology 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 otolaryngologists—blending salary potential, growth opportunities (clinical, stewardship, and public-health roles), and supportive health care and public-health infrastructure.

1. North Dakota — Among the strongest-paying states for otolaryngologists, with low- to mid-$400,000 salaries, a cost-of-living index of ~91, and a top national ranking as the #1 state for ENT practice.

2. Alaska — Among the top-paying states for otolaryngologists, with estimated earnings around $470,000, a high cost-of-living index of ~125, and a leading national ranking for Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) practice supported by strong job prospects and a favorable malpractice climate.

3. Wisconsin — Among the most balanced states for otolaryngologists, with low- to mid-$400,000 salaries, a ~97.7 cost-of-living index, and a strong national ranking supported by high job availability and an excellent physician location quotient.

4. Wyoming — Among the highest-value states for otolaryngologists, with just over $410,000 in annual compensation, a ~93.7 cost-of-living index, and a strong national ranking for ENT practice, supported by one of the nation’s most favorable malpractice climates and the absence of state income tax.

5. Nebraska — Among the most stable markets for otolaryngologists, with annual earnings just over $400,000, paired with a low cost-of-living index of ~92.6, offering a balanced mix of competitive wages and a solid job market.

6. Minnesota — Among the strongest-paying states for otolaryngologists, with annual earnings around $440,000 paired with a below-average cost-of-living index of ~94.6, supported by Rochester—one of the top US metros for physician compensation even after cost-of-living adjustments.

7. Washington — Among the highest-paying states for otolaryngologists, with annual earnings around $470,000, paired with a higher cost-of-living index of ~114, supported by robust job counts and a favorable location quotient.

8. Pennsylvania — Among the strongest states for otolaryngologists, with annual earnings around $430,000 paired with a cost-of-living index of ~97.2, supported by one of the highest job counts in the country, driven by numerous large academic centers and community systems.

9. Iowa — Among the most affordable states for otolaryngologists, with salaries in the low $400,000s paired with a very low cost-of-living index of ~89.7—more than 10% below the national baseline.

10. Montana — Among the strongest-paying states for otolaryngologists, with an estimated annual salary just over $410,000, paired with a favorable cost-of-living index of ~95.5.

Sources: Era Locums, Fierce Healthcare, Salary.com, World Population Review, Zippia