Neurology Locum Compensation Benchmarks
Survey data by region and facility setting. Source: BLS OEWS, AMN Healthcare, CHG Healthcare. For informational purposes only.
How does your offer compare?
Enter your rate to see where it falls against these benchmarks.
Compare to Market Data →Regional Benchmark Data
P25 / Median / P75 hourly rates in $/hr
| Region | Setting | P25 | Median | P75 | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Urban Hospital | $195 | $228 | $265 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $210 | $248 | $292 | BLS OEWS 2024 + CHG Healthcare 2025 Survey | |
| Midwest | Urban Hospital | $182 | $215 | $248 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $198 | $232 | $272 | BLS OEWS 2024 + CHG Healthcare 2025 Survey | |
| South | Urban Hospital | $175 | $208 | $240 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $190 | $225 | $265 | BLS OEWS 2024 + Weatherby Healthcare 2025 | |
| West | Urban Hospital | $205 | $240 | $278 | BLS OEWS 2024 + AMN Healthcare 2025 Survey |
| Rural Critical Access | $220 | $258 | $302 | BLS OEWS 2024 + CHG Healthcare 2025 Survey |
Market Overview
Neurology locum demand is driven primarily by acute stroke coverage requirements at hospitals seeking Joint Commission certification. Teleneurology has expanded coverage options, but on-site neurologists command a substantial premium. Rural hospitals increasingly rely on locum neurologists for 24/7 stroke coverage.
Key Leverage Points
Urban Hospital
- Vascular neurology training commands a 20–25% premium at stroke centers
- EEG reading capability significantly expands your available assignments
- Teleneurology arrangements can supplement on-site coverage income
- Academic-level subspecialty skills (epilepsy, movement disorders) open niche high-rate slots
Rural Critical Access
- Stroke coverage is a core revenue driver for rural hospitals — your leverage is strong
- Teleneurology hybrid (remote strokes, in-person consults) is now standard at many rural sites
- General neurology breadth (not just stroke) makes you more valuable at isolated facilities
- Travel and housing are standard; negotiate for a rental car given rural distances
Contract Review Checklist
Items to review carefully before signing
- Stroke activation response time not defined — unreasonable response expectations must be documented
- Teleneurology technology not provided by facility — confirm equipment responsibility
- Unlimited consult volume without census cap — set a daily consult ceiling
- Call coverage for weekends at weekday rate — nights and weekends should carry a differential
Neurology Negotiation Toolkit
Expanded benchmark tables, sample negotiation language, contract review checklist, and state-by-state take-home comparisons. One-time purchase.
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