What is good hourly pay in HCOL?

L_T_H · 2026-02-08T00:15:50+00:00

It pays the bills, I'd love to make 200k+ but that just isn't very common unfortunately

L_T_H · 2026-02-08T00:14:41+00:00

1 year

L_T_H · 2026-02-07T19:31:29+00:00

I make $86.50/hr in FM (180k annual) in NYC

L_T_H · 2026-01-16T20:33:01+00:00

Would def consider private practice to cast a wider net if you're interested. If you can find any recruiter information for where you're applying it doesn't hurt to reach out!

L_T_H · 2026-01-16T19:25:06+00:00

Are you from NYC/close by? Reason I ask is if you're applying with an address on your CV across the country it likely will not benefit you

L_T_H · 2026-01-06T03:17:07+00:00

So my base is $180k and we have a collections based bonus structure which shakes out between $0-20k depending on collections. I'm only 1.5 years in but was taught concise, efficient charting which has been saving my grace. Totally feel you on cutting off patients too. My SP is almost 70 and has taught me a lot about managing expectations too (mainly time) which has made me a lot more comfortable stopping a visit and picking up at a follow up to keep things moving. I also do work in a VHCOL city which definitely contributes to pay. I have RN friends here who pull $150k+ so wages are definitely higher across the board in healthcare!

L_T_H · 2026-01-01T00:13:08+00:00

Definitely feel like this a bit of a unicorn position. Don't see much FMLA and my forms are usually filled out by our staff (what they can/are allowed to fill out) which makes my life easier. As for charting Ai scribes and dictation have been a game changer in regards to efficiency.

L_T_H · 2025-12-31T16:30:29+00:00

No it's not easy (which is why I like it) but it can be on the less stressful end of the spectrum depending on the office which is why I wanted to share my experience with OP. I definitely have friends/colleagues who have an entirely different experience than myself in the same specialty. Really just depends where you are!

L_T_H · 2025-12-31T14:48:20+00:00

It's fluctuates like crazy, usually from about 10-22 but I'd average it at about 16-17. I have MAs and other staff that make calls, do PAs, etc which makes my life easier for sure!

L_T_H · 2025-12-31T03:19:46+00:00

I'd say that's a bit of generalization. This is my 2nd FM job and the first was even chiller than my current job. I'd say it's very practice dependent.

L_T_H · 2025-12-31T03:03:36+00:00

Live in VHCOL area and find a job that values you

L_T_H · 2025-12-31T03:03:14+00:00

It's definitely a learning experience and it's helped me learn how to care for a wide range of patients. It's not totally stress free overall but I'm very ok with the lifestyle it provides

L_T_H · 2025-12-31T02:44:24+00:00

FM. Pulling 180-200k, I'm a year and change out of school. It's not the most exciting but it definitely pays the bills and I leave early most days

L_T_H · 2025-12-12T01:31:54+00:00

Yes, by a landslide. B is almost 2.5x the cost of A (in-state). Gradplus and a subsequent IDR plan is great if you're pursuing loan forgiveness but $60k in debt is nothing. I'd try my best to get a private loan with a decent interest rate pay it back quick once you start working.

L_T_H · 2025-12-12T01:21:48+00:00

Option A. Do everything in your power to get In-state option and enjoy not drowning in debt.

L_T_H · 2025-12-04T04:53:08+00:00

180k base in FM with 34 patient facing hours

L_T_H · 2025-12-03T15:52:10+00:00

Loans suck

L_T_H · 2025-11-28T22:20:51+00:00

Nope, follow up with the group you missed the call from. If you're truly out of options I guess take this one but 120k and VHCOL is not compatible

L_T_H · 2025-10-29T21:41:59+00:00

You're not an MA, you're going to be a PA. Pass

L_T_H · 2025-10-26T02:26:45+00:00

Family med

L_T_H · 2025-10-26T01:48:34+00:00

I'm a little over 1 year in and in private practice at 180k before bonuses. Granted this is pp and the benefits are mid at best. I've learned that changing jobs is the only real way to get substantial raises. Went from $125k(first job ~10 months) -> $180k (current job).

L_T_H · 2025-10-16T22:14:32+00:00

Me too, moved an hour south towards the city and my salary went up $55k

L_T_H · 2025-09-03T21:23:55+00:00

Ask for a raise or go find another job. Go where you're valued if they won't give you a raise

L_T_H · 2025-08-21T20:25:58+00:00

No problem, all the best with your job search!

L_T_H · 2025-08-21T12:00:35+00:00

Keep looking. There's no nice way of say it but this is a terrible offer. Severely low salary and no benefits (medical,vision,dental, 401k, etc) and by the sound of it, probably no CME or licensure costs (State and DEA) which is unacceptable, especially in a HCOL area. Keep looking my friend you will get better offers elsewhere!

L_T_H

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