Podiatrists
O*NET 29-1081.00 · SOC 29-1081
Podiatrist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $160k a year with +2% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 200 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Diagnose and treat foot and ankle injuries or disorders
- →Perform surgical procedures on feet, ankles, and lower legs
- →Prescribe orthotics to correct foot alignment and relieve pain
- →Treat diabetic patients for foot ulcers and circulation problems
- →Order and interpret X-rays to evaluate foot and ankle conditions
Education & How to Get In
Podiatrist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as a Podiatrist? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Podiatrist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Podiatrist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Podiatrist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Podiatrists is projected to grow 2% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·32% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·26% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Podiatrist make?
The median Podiatrist earns $160k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Podiatrist jobs?
Our model puts Podiatrist at 19 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 32% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 26% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Podiatrist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Podiatrist?
Podiatrist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Podiatrist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Podiatrist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes