Forensic Pathologist salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Forensic Pathologist in United States is approximately 116,356 USD (116,769 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Forensic Pathologist do?

A forensic pathologist is a medical doctor specialized in determining the cause and manner of death in cases involving suspicious or unexplained deaths. They perform autopsies, examine medical records, and collect evidence from crime scenes to determine the cause of death, whether it was due to natural causes, accident, suicide, or homicide. They analyze tissue samples, conduct toxicology tests, and document their findings in detailed reports. Forensic pathologists work closely with law enforcement agencies, providing expert testimony in court and assisting in criminal investigations. They collaborate with other forensic specialists, such as forensic scientists and crime scene investigators, to piece together the circumstances surrounding a death. They may also be involved in teaching and research activities.

Skills: forensic pathologist, medical examiner, cause of death, autopsy, criminal investigation, expert testimony
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Forensic Pathologist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Forensic Pathologist a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Forensic Pathologist is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Forensic Pathologist?

High salary for Forensic Pathologist would be somewhere between 127,992 USD and 168,716 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Forensic Pathologist in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 116,356 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 9,696 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,238 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 56 USD per hour
By working as Forensic Pathologist a person can save up to 7,451 USD per month or 89,409 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Forensic Pathologist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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