Top 10 highest-paying states for OB-GYNs

For OB-GYNs, salary is only part of the equation when choosing where to live and practice. Quality of life, healthcare infrastructure, patient populations, and practice setting all play a role in deciding where to build a fulfilling career. Still, OB-GYN pay can vary significantly by state, and understanding those differences can help you make a strategic move and maximize your earning potential.

Below are the top 10 highest-paying states for OB-GYNs according to Physician’s Thrive, along with insights into what makes each state a compelling place to practice medicine and call home.

1. Washington—Average OB-GYN pay: $307,711

Washington is often associated with its lush coastal cities and record rainfall, and it’s also one of the most physician-friendly states in the country. The OB-GYN pay rate in Washington tops the list at $307,711, offering strong compensation in urban hubs like Seattle and smaller cities like Spokane and Tacoma.

The Evergreen State has made substantial investments in women’s health services, reproductive care, and Medicaid expansion, creating robust demand for OB-GYNs. Further, state healthcare leaders are working diligently to address physician burnout through the “Quadruple Aim" initiative, which focuses on improving healthcare clinicians' quality of life and work.

Washington also offers an abundance of outdoor lifestyle perks—from skiing in the Cascades to kayaking in Puget Sound—making it especially attractive to those who value work-life balance. 

2. Colorado—Average OB-GYN Pay: $305,207

With OB-GYN doctors earning an average of $305,207, Colorado offers a compelling mix of professional opportunity and personal fulfillment. The state has experienced rapid population growth over the past decade, especially in metro areas like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs—all of which have seen increased demand for obstetric and gynecological services.

Colorado ranks high in public health outcomes, strongly emphasizing preventive care and maternal health initiatives, including its Medicaid expansion that increased access to reproductive health services. Further, UCHealth, one of the state’s largest health systems, is ranked among U.S. News and World Report’s 50 Best U.S. Hospitals for Obstetrics and Gynecology and has been nationally recognized by the American Medical Association as one of the top health systems demonstrating a commitment to physician well-being.

Colorado’s natural landscape and wellness-focused culture outside the clinic make it a magnet for physicians looking to enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle.

3. Delaware—Average OB-GYN Pay: $285,767

Don’t let its size fool you—Delaware offers one of the highest OB-GYN pay rates in the country, with average salaries hovering around $285,767. 

Delaware has a unique healthcare environment, marked by progressive women's health policies, strong hospital networks, and a highly insured patient population. The state is actively working to reduce maternal mortality rates and increase prenatal care access, positioning OB-GYNs at the center of meaningful public health improvements.

Delaware’s healthcare systems are also leading the way in supporting physician wellness and retention. ChristianaCare is among the top 10 health systems nationally recognized by the American Medical Association for its dedication to physician well-being. Bayhealth actively invests in community engagement and professional development initiatives to retain its physician workforce. These efforts reflect a broader statewide commitment to creating a sustainable, rewarding environment for OB-GYNs and other healthcare professionals.

4. Illinois—Average OB-GYN Pay: $283,117

Illinois is home to some of the nation’s most respected medical institutions—including Northwestern Medicine, the University of Chicago Medical Center, and Rush University. Five Illinois health systems rank in the top 50 Best U.S. Hospitals for Obstetrics and Gynecology according to U.S. News and World Report and offer OB/GYNs access to innovative clinical environments and cutting-edge research. 

While Chicago serves as a major healthcare hub in the state, demand for OB-GYNs remains high throughout central and southern Illinois, particularly in underserved communities. The state was also recently selected to participate in the Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model, a federal program that seeks to improve maternal health outcomes.

With an OB-GYN pay rate of $283,117, the state provides strong earning potential in urban and rural settings. Illinois checks every box for OB-GYNs interested in serving a diverse patient population, access to continuing medical education, and competitive compensation.

5. New York—Average OB-GYN Pay: $281,407

With a population of nearly 20 million, New York offers OB-GYNs a broad spectrum of practice settings—from academic medical centers in Manhattan to community clinics in upstate towns. U.S. News & World Report ranked five New York medical centers among the 50 Best U.S. Hospitals for Obstetrics and Gynecology, reflecting the strength of the state’s health systems.

The state prioritizes maternal health equity through projects like the Maternal and Infant Community Health Collaboratives (MICHC) initiative, which works to improve maternal and infant health outcomes for high-need, low-income women and their families. The state ranks second among the healthiest states in the U.S. 

The average OB-GYN pay in the Empire State is $281,407. And while the cost of living can be high, particularly in New York City, OB-GYNs working in outer boroughs or smaller cities like Buffalo, Albany, and Rochester can strike a balance between salary and affordability. Add in a wealth of cultural offerings, vibrant communities, and world-class public transportation, and it’s clear why many OB-GYNs choose to build careers in New York. 

6. Virginia—Average OB-GYN Pay: $281,169

With an OB-GYN doctor pay of $281,169, Virginia offers a stable, well-supported environment for women’s health specialists.

The state benefits from proximity to Washington, D.C., a strong private healthcare system, and an increasing emphasis on rural healthcare expansion—all of which contribute to sustained demand for OB-GYNs.

Virginia is also home to top-ranked hospitals and academic institutions, creating opportunities for physicians interested in teaching, leadership, or subspecialty care.

For OB-GYNs who prefer a slower pace of life, regions like the Shenandoah Valley or the Blue Ridge Mountains offer scenic living with access to respected healthcare systems. With its strong salaries and professional diversity, Virginia appeals to OB-GYNs at all stages of their careers.

7. Maryland—Average OB-GYN Pay: $276,641

Maryland has an average OB-GYN pay rate of $276,641 and boasts access to some of the nation’s top healthcare institutions. Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore holds the #2 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the 50 Best U.S. Hospitals for Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the state continues to invest in maternal health equity through public health initiatives such as the Women’s Health Program.

Because of their proximity to Washington, D.C., many physicians engage in research, policy, and advocacy work that shapes the future of reproductive healthcare nationally.

Outside of work, Maryland offers the best of both worlds—vibrant city life in Baltimore and D.C., plus easy access to beaches, hiking in the Appalachian foothills, and sailing on the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you’re drawn to academic medicine or community-based practice, Maryland combines competitive compensation with a mission-driven culture and rich quality of life.

8. Vermont—Average OB-GYN Pay: $275,264

Vermont may be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to supporting physicians—and OB-GYNs are no exception. With an average salary of $275,264, OB-GYNs here enjoy strong compensation alongside a more relaxed pace of practice.

The Green Mountain State is known for its innovative healthcare system that emphasizes preventive care and value-based payment. This allows OB-GYNs to focus on long-term patient relationships and quality outcomes rather than high-volume turnover. Its commitment to maternal and infant health is especially notable: Vermont was the only state to earn an “A” rating on the 2024 March of Dimes Report Card.

Vermont stands out as a top choice for OB-GYNs looking for a tight-knit community, progressive healthcare infrastructure, and a meaningful work-life balance. 

9. Nebraska—Average OB-GYN Pay: $270,402

OB-GYN pay in Nebraska averages $270,402—a figure that stretches further thanks to the state’s low cost of living and low income tax. While Omaha and Lincoln serve as major healthcare hubs, demand for OB-GYNs is high throughout rural areas, where access to reproductive healthcare services remains limited.

Nebraska has taken steps to address its maternal health challenges, including bolstering rural residency programs and offering loan repayment incentives for physicians willing to serve in critical access areas. With a welcoming medical community and high need for women’s health services, Nebraska offers both impact and income.

10. Missouri—Average OB-GYN Pay: $269,606

Rounding out the top 10 is Missouri, where OB-GYN pay averages $269,606. While the state faces challenges around reproductive healthcare access, the demand for OB-GYNs remains high, especially in underserved and rural communities.

Healthcare employers across Missouri are working to expand access to maternal care through telemedicine, regional partnerships, and expanded clinic services. Missouri offers a chance to make a tangible difference for OB-GYNs committed to patient advocacy and health equity. Major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City also provide access to top-tier hospitals, residency programs, and medical networks. With its urban opportunity and rural need mix, Missouri presents a unique and financially rewarding practice environment.

Locum tenens: Flexibility, freedom, and financial upside

In addition to permanent roles, many OB-GYNs find locum tenens positions offer highly competitive pay—and often outpace traditional salaried employment. Depending on the location, assignment length, and urgency of need, locum tenens OB-GYNs can earn substantially higher hourly or daily, along with travel and housing stipends. These flexible assignments not only allow physicians to maximize earnings but also offer exposure to diverse practice settings and patient populations across the country.

For OB-GYN Dr. Shyrlena Bogard, locums offers more than financial benefits—it’s a chance to explore different practice settings and test new markets before making a long-term commitment.

She offers this advice to new grads: "Don't rush to jump into a long-term contract just because you've spent the last eight to 12 years accumulating debt. Locums allows you to travel and go to different places, but it allows you to really test the market before you decide where you want to commit, long term. It is a very supportive system."

From schedule flexibility to opportunity for exploration, learn why Dr. Bogard loves locum tenens work:

For OB-GYNs looking to boost income, explore new regions, or ease into retirement, locum tenens can be a smart, lucrative path forward—especially in high-paying states like those featured on this list.

Elevate your career in these high-paying states 

Whether you're a newly trained OB-GYN looking for your first position or a seasoned physician considering a change of pace, geography can play a massive role in shaping your career trajectory. These 10 states not only lead the nation in OB-GYN pay, but they also offer a variety of practice environments, patient populations, and lifestyle advantages. If you're looking to maximize your earning potential while practicing meaningful, impactful medicine, one of these states could be your next home.

Ready to earn more by working in one of these higher-paying states? We can help you find a locum tenens assignment there. Give us a call at 800.453.3030 or view today's locum tenens job opportunities.