Surgeon vs Quantity Surveyor
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Surgeon earns 210% more than Quantity Surveyor
Median R 130 000/month vs R 42 000/month — a R 88 000/month difference
Surgeon
R 1 560 000/year
491% above SA workforce median
Quantity Surveyor
R 504 000/year
91% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Surgeon | Quantity Surveyor |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 65 000 | R 22 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 115 000 | R 42 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 230 000 | R 75 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
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.
Quantity Surveyor
Government infrastructure investment keeps QS demand robust. Housing backlogs and private sector commercial development continue to create work. Skilled PrQSs are a scarce resource.
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Surgeon or a Quantity Surveyor in South Africa?▾
A Surgeon earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Surgeon is R 130 000/month, compared to R 42 000/month for a Quantity Surveyor — a difference of R 88 000/month (210% higher).
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.
What is the Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa is R 42 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 28 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Surgeon or Quantity Surveyor?▾
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.