Physiotherapist vs Surgeon
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Surgeon earns 225% more than Physiotherapist
Median R 130 000/month vs R 40 000/month — a R 90 000/month difference
Physiotherapist
R 480 000/year
82% above SA workforce median
Surgeon
R 1 560 000/year
491% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Physiotherapist | Surgeon |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 26 000 | R 65 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 40 000 | R 115 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 62 000 | R 230 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Physiotherapist
Growing demand driven by an ageing population, sport injury awareness, and post-surgical rehabilitation needs. NHI implementation may expand public-sector allied health posts significantly.
Surgeon
South Africa has a severe shortage of surgeons, particularly in the public sector. Private sector demand is growing with rising medical aid penetration. International emigration of surgeons creates ongoing vacancies.
See your actual take-home pay
Enter any gross salary to calculate PAYE, UIF, and net pay after deductions.
Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Physiotherapist or a Surgeon in South Africa?▾
A Surgeon earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Surgeon is R 130 000/month, compared to R 40 000/month for a Physiotherapist — a difference of R 90 000/month (225% higher).
What is the Physiotherapist salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Physiotherapist salary in South Africa is R 40 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 22 000–R 32 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 50 000/month, and senior roles pay R 50 000–R 85 000/month.
What is the Surgeon salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Surgeon salary in South Africa is R 130 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 55 000–R 80 000/month, mid-level pays R 90 000–R 160 000/month, and senior roles pay R 160 000–R 400 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Physiotherapist or Surgeon?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.