Chiropractor Employment, Job Outlook, and Salaries

Acording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 53,000 Chiropractors practiced in the U.S. in 2006.  Most Chiropractors own their own business; however, some Chiropractors work in group practices, teach at colleges, or practice in hospitals.  For students interested in becoming a Chiropractor, the occupation market for Chiropractors looks to increase from 2006 to 2016. 

Alternative Health Care

The prosperous job market for future Chiropractors most likely is due to a growing trend towards alternative health care as well as increasingly health conscious Americans.  Furthermore, the increase in elderly individuals will aid in bringing in new patients.  Insurance coverage for patients varies depending on the particular insurance company as well as individual insurance plan benefits.  Recent Chiropractic College graduates also can acquire a position at clinics with the intention to buy the practice once the previous Chiropractor retires. 

Projections

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the future employment of Chiropractors in 2016 to reach approximately 70,000.  Chiropractor Salaries vary greatly depending on whether Doctors are self-employed, an Associate, or practice in a group setting.  Furthermore, geographic location also offers a large influence on the potential for new and ongoing patient visit averages.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Doctors of Chiropractic was $65,220 in 2006.  For more information on labor statistics related to Chiropractors, visit www.bls.gov.[1]