- Salary statistics
- Cytologist salary
Cytologist salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
89 800 - 117 800 SEK / month
Women earn 99% of what men do.
Hälso- & sjukvård
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Salary progression Cytologist
What does a Cytologist do? – Job tasks and work environment
A Cytologist primarily works with analyzing cell samples to detect pathological changes, such as cancer or infections. The role is an important part of the diagnostic chain in healthcare and involves close cooperation with pathologists, laboratory staff, and sometimes direct contact with patients during sampling. The work environment is mostly laboratory-based and characterized by high precision, concentration, and a constant focus on quality assurance. Tasks include microscopy, assessment of cell changes, reporting results, and sometimes participating in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient cases.
Salary development over time
The salary for Cytologists has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 93 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 98 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. A combination of increased demand for specialist competence in cytology and a general upward pressure on specialist doctor salaries has contributed to this development. The market is characterized by a shortage of specialists, which drives up salaries further. Additionally, increased requirements for education and certification, as well as a greater focus on diagnostics in cancer care, have positively influenced salary growth.
Cytologist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 98 000 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (men), 91,200 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (men), 101,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 563 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (97 300 SEK/month vs 98 700 SEK/month)
- Regional differences: Information about regional differences is currently unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a Cytologist, a long and specialized education path is required. The profession belongs to the group of specialist doctors, which means that both a medical license and further training in pathological anatomy and cytology are mandatory. The education is academically demanding and also includes extensive practical components and supervised specialization training. In addition to formal degrees, continuous professional development and certification in new diagnostic methods are valued.
- Formal degree: Medical education (5.5 years) + internship (approx. 1.5 years)
- Specialist training: Pathology and cytology (at least 5 years)
- Certifications: Recommended in advanced cytodiagnostics
- Practical training: Specialization at an accredited laboratory
- Prerequisites: Medical license and approved internship
Many Cytologists work closely with research projects and actively contribute to the development of new diagnostic methods. This means that the profession often combines clinical work with opportunities for academic development and international contacts.
Common benefits and compensations
Cytologists often have access to benefits such as extra vacation days, occupational pension, training grants, and wellness allowances. In some cases, opportunities for research leave, conference participation, and subsidized work tools are also offered. A high degree of flexibility and opportunities for further education are common within the profession, especially at larger hospitals and research institutions.
Challenges and competition
The competition for positions as a Cytologist is relatively low, but the challenges within the profession are significant. The shortage of specialist doctors in the field means that workload is often high and recruitment difficulties occur. At the same time, the complexity of the work requires continuous professional development to stay updated on new methods and research findings. There is also a paradoxical situation where there is both high demand and some turnover within the group, which can lead to varying work environments and demands for flexibility.
Tips for those who want to become a Cytologist
To succeed as a Cytologist, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills and a keen interest in medical science. Precision and patience are crucial qualities, as the work requires attention to detail when assessing cell samples and interpreting complex patterns. Being communicative and able to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams is an advantage, as interaction with other specialists is part of everyday work. Engagement in continuous education and a curious attitude open opportunities for career development and participation in research projects. Finally, flexibility and the ability to handle stressful situations benefit those who want to thrive and develop in the role of Cytologist.
Key facts about Cytologist
- Educational level: Specialist doctor with focus on pathology/cytology
- Work environment: Laboratory-based, often within hospitals or research settings
- Work form: Full-time, sometimes combined with research
- Demand: Very high, especially in the public sector
- Number of available jobs: 375 within the group of specialist doctors
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years, a Cytologist can advance to leading roles within laboratory operations, such as section head or laboratory manager. There are also opportunities to engage in research, teach at universities, or participate in international collaborations on developing diagnostic methods. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market is very good, with great opportunities for employment and an expected increase in demand over the next five years. However, recruitment can be challenging, meaning employers often compete for qualified candidates. The outlook for the profession remains positive, especially for those willing to continue their education and take responsibility for development initiatives within their organization.
Frequently asked questions about Cytologist
- What is the average salary of a Cytologist?
- The average salary for a Cytologist is 98 000 SEK per month. - How large is the salary difference between men and women in the profession?
- Men earn an average of 98 700 SEK and women 97 300 SEK, which is approximately 99% of men's salary. - What education is required to become a Cytologist?
- Medical license followed by specialist training in pathology and cytology, totaling at least 12 years. - What are the future prospects for Cytologists?
- Job opportunities are very good, and demand is expected to increase over the next five years. - What are the highest and lowest salaries for Cytologists?
- The highest salary is 110,600 SEK (men), 101,500 SEK (women). The lowest salary is 84,600 SEK (men), 91,200 SEK (women). - What is the hourly wage for a Cytologist?
- The average hourly wage is 563 SEK based on 166 working hours per month. - Are there regional salary differences?
- Information about regional differences is currently unavailable.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80100 kr | 84700 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 85700 kr | 90300 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 96600 kr | 101800 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 98300 kr | 102700 kr |
| 65-68 | 97% | 103100 kr | 105900 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 93300 kr | 98000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80400 kr | 85800 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 85900 kr | 91400 kr |
| 45-54 | 95% | 94500 kr | 100700 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 99500 kr | 104800 kr |
| 65-68 | 95% | 103400 kr | 106700 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 92900 kr | 98500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 94% | 90400 kr | 91800 kr |
| 45-54 | 91% | 96300 kr | 97300 kr |
| 55-64 | 91% | 99500 kr | 103200 kr |
| 65-68 | 73% | 125700 kr | 128000 kr |
| Snitt | 87% | 97800 kr | 99800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80400 kr | 85900 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 85800 kr | 91400 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 94500 kr | 100700 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 99500 kr | 104800 kr |
| 65-68 | 95% | 102900 kr | 106200 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 92900 kr | 98500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 119% | 84900 kr | 85600 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 106600 kr | 107300 kr |
| 55-64 | 93200 kr | 94100 kr | |
| Snitt | 113% | 94900 kr | 95600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 119% | 84900 kr | 85600 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 106600 kr | 107300 kr |
| 55-64 | 93200 kr | 94100 kr | |
| Snitt | 113% | 94900 kr | 95600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80600 kr | 85900 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 84600 kr | 89900 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 96700 kr | 103600 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 97500 kr | 102900 kr |
| 65-68 | 97% | 104200 kr | 107300 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 93100 kr | 98700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80700 kr | 86900 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 86400 kr | 93200 kr |
| 45-54 | 95% | 95300 kr | 103200 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 100100 kr | 106600 kr |
| 65-68 | 95% | 105100 kr | 109100 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 94000 kr | 100900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 94% | 92700 kr | 95900 kr |
| 45-54 | 91% | 101600 kr | 104600 kr |
| 55-64 | 91% | 103700 kr | 108600 kr |
| 65-68 | 73% | 138500 kr | 141900 kr |
| Snitt | 87% | 105600 kr | 109300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80700 kr | 86900 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 86300 kr | 93200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 95200 kr | 103200 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 100000 kr | 106500 kr |
| 65-68 | 95% | 104400 kr | 108300 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 93900 kr | 100800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 119% | 79000 kr | 79400 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 105700 kr | 106400 kr |
| Snitt | 113% | 89200 kr | 89800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 119% | 79000 kr | 79400 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 105700 kr | 106400 kr |
| Snitt | 113% | 89200 kr | 89800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 79600 kr | 83400 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 86700 kr | 90600 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 96600 kr | 100400 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 99100 kr | 102500 kr |
| 65-68 | 97% | 101200 kr | 103600 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 93500 kr | 97300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80100 kr | 84600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 85400 kr | 90000 kr |
| 45-54 | 95% | 93900 kr | 98500 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 98900 kr | 102800 kr |
| 65-68 | 95% | 100900 kr | 103100 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 92000 kr | 96300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 94% | 89200 kr | 89800 kr |
| 45-54 | 91% | 94600 kr | 95000 kr |
| 55-64 | 91% | 96400 kr | 99300 kr |
| 65-68 | 73% | 103500 kr | 103900 kr |
| Snitt | 87% | 93800 kr | 94800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 80200 kr | 84700 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 85400 kr | 90000 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 93800 kr | 98600 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 99000 kr | 102900 kr |
| 65-68 | 95% | 100800 kr | 103100 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 91900 kr | 96300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 119% | 93100 kr | 94100 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 107100 kr | 107800 kr |
| 55-64 | 99900 kr | 101100 kr | |
| Snitt | 113% | 100600 kr | 101600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 119% | 93100 kr | 94100 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 107100 kr | 107800 kr |
| 55-64 | 99900 kr | 101100 kr | |
| Snitt | 113% | 100600 kr | 101600 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Cytologist has the SSYK code 2211, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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