How Physician (MD/DO)s in South Dakota get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical South Dakota compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $151,200 | $114,900 | $196,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $188,000 | $142,800 | $244,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $216,100 | $164,200 | $280,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $259,300 | $197,000 | $337,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $293,800 | $223,300 | $382,000 |
Top occupations by median pay in South Dakota — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in South Dakota
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Physician (MD/DO) salary in South Dakota is $216,100 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $164,200 and the 75th at $280,900.
Pay-wise, South Dakota sits -20% below the national Physician (MD/DO) median ($270,100). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Physician (MD/DO)s (10–14 years of experience) in South Dakota earn around $259,300 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $293,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), South Dakota ranks 51st for Physician (MD/DO) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $378,200 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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