Medical Billing and Coding Salary Information
How Much do Medical Billing and Coding Specialists Make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians, which includes medical billing and coding specialists, was $44,090 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent of earners in this field made less than $29,940, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $73,490.
The salary for medical billing and coding specialists can vary depending on several factors, including their level of education, experience, geographic location, and the type of healthcare facility they work for. For example, those working in hospitals tend to earn more than those working in physician’s offices.
It’s worth noting that salaries can also vary based on the specific job title. For example, a certified professional coder (CPC) may earn a higher salary than a medical billing specialist.
Overall, medical billing and coding can be a stable and rewarding career path for those interested in healthcare and administrative work.
How Much do Medical Billing and Coding Specialists Make in the US?
Annual Mean Wage Of Medical Billing and Coding Specialists, by State, May 2021 according to BLS (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Medical Billing and Coding Salary Information by State
| State | Hourly Mean Wage | Average Annual Income | Highest Annual Income (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $19.71 | $43,270 | $59,700 |
| Alaska Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $29.00 | $48,040 | $76,550 |
| Arizona Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.17 | $46,140 | $60,240 |
| Arkansas Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $18.06 | $39,140 | $58,920 |
| California Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $27.76 | $55,750 | $94,310 |
| Colorado Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $24.98 | $50,240 | $74,250 |
| Connecticut Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $26.81 | $52,820 | $86,080 |
| Delaware Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.87 | $47,870 | $60,520 |
| District of Columbia Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $26.76 | $56,640 | $96,870 |
| Florida Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.95 | $43,560 | $63,690 |
| Georgia Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.30 | $43,830 | $67,690 |
| Hawaii MedicalBilling and Coding Salary | $23.55 | $47,990 | $77,830 |
| Idaho Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.56 | $43,330 | $60,620 |
| Illinois Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.48 | $46,660 | $64,120 |
| Indiana Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $21.22 | $41,940 | $62,640 |
| Iowa Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.33 | $43,180 | $60,930 |
| Kansas Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.26 | $43,200 | $59,770 |
| Kentucky Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $19.90 | $40,960 | $60,580 |
| Louisiana MedicalBilling and Coding Salary | $19.96 | $42,280 | $60,820 |
| Maine Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $21.76 | $43,000 | $58,810 |
| Maryland Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $23.93 | $50,180 | $77,810 |
| Massachusetts Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $26.69 | $53,390 | $93,720 |
| Michigan Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.36 | $43,290 | $61,160 |
| Minnesota Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $23.67 | $47,090 | $74,200 |
| Mississippi Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $18.93 | $37,460 | $59,180 |
| Missouri Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.90 | $43,030 | $66,020 |
| Montana Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.72 | $45,370 | $61,250 |
| Nebraska Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.87 | $42,160 | $60,240 |
| Nevada Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $23.27 | $51,740 | $59,380 |
| New Hampshire Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $24.68 | $48,820 | $60,240 |
| New Jersey Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $25.96 | $53,930 | $96,170 |
| New Mexico Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $21.08 | $44,490 | $60,930 |
| New York Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $25.56 | $50,480 | $77,810 |
| North Carolina Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.52 | $44,480 | $60,780 |
| North Dakota Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.78 | $46,350 | $61,250 |
| Ohio Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $21.24 | $43,760 | $62,610 |
| Oklahoma Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $19.53 | $38,960 | $60,340 |
| Oregon Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $25.39 | $49,870 | $75,940 |
| Pennsylvania Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.73 | $45,140 | $74,660 |
| Rhode Island Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $24.73 | $49,800 | $74,250 |
| South Carolina Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.25 | $43,340 | $72,470 |
| South Dakota Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $19.89 | $38,940 | $71,120 |
| Tennessee Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.59 | $43,310 | $61,400 |
| Texas Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.69 | $43,850 | $63,330 |
| Utah Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $20.34 | $44,620 | $73,740 |
| Vermont Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $23.08 | $46,260 | $59,770 |
| Virginia Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $21.99 | $49,390 | $76,240 |
| Washington Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $25.45 | $53,030 | $76,950 |
| West Virginia Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $19.49 | $38,930 | $59,800 |
| Wisconsin Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.13 | $45,040 | $62,050 |
| Wyoming Medical Billing and Coding Salary | $22.09 | $44,800 | $73,580 |
Top Paying Metropolitan Areas for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists
| Metropolitan area | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 2,320 | $ 32.20 | $ 66,980 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | 920 | $ 32.16 | $ 66,900 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | 390 | $ 31.72 | $ 65,990 |
| Trenton, NJ | 80 | $ 31.22 | $ 64,930 |
| Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA | 1,200 | $ 30.16 | $ 62,730 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | 190 | $ 29.37 | $ 61,090 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | 2,270 | $ 29.35 | $ 61,050 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | 5,270 | $ 29.31 | $ 60,960 |
| Barnstable Town, MA | 80 | $ 29.05 | $ 60,420 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | 1,810 | $ 28.98 | $ 60,270 |
What are the Salaries of Different Types of Medical Billing and Coding Specialists?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians, which includes medical coding specialists, was $44,090 as of May 2020. However, some medical billing and coding specialists may earn more or less than this depending on their specific job title and responsibilities.
Medical Billing Specialists
Based on data from Payscale, as of February 2023, the average annual salary for medical billing specialists in the United States is $41,475, with a salary range of roughly $27,000 to $61,000. This is also subject to the same factors that affect salaries in the field of medical billing and coding, such as location, education, and experience.
Medical Coding Specialists
Based on data from Payscale, as of February 2023, the average annual salary for medical coding specialists in the United States is $50,118, with a salary range of roughly $34,000 to $78,000. This is also subject to the same factors that affect salaries in the field of medical billing and coding, such as location, education, and experience.
What Are the Top Paying Industries for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists?
| Industry | Employment | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance Carriers | 3,540 | 0.29 | $ 30.85 | $ 64,170 |
| Scientific Research and Development Services | 640 | 0.08 | $ 29.37 | $ 61,080 |
| Electronic Shopping and Mail-Order Houses | (8) | (8) | $ 28.47 | $ 59,210 |
| Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | (8) | (8) | $ 28.27 | $ 58,800 |
| Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services | 3,480 | 0.22 | $ 27.66 | $ 57,530 |
How Can I Increase my Salary As a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist?
Pursue Certification
Earning a certification, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), can demonstrate your expertise and increase your value to employers, which may lead to a higher salary.
Gain More Experience
The more experience you have in the field, the more valuable you become to employers, which can result in higher pay.
Stay up-to-date
Keep up with changes and trends in the industry by attending continuing education courses, reading industry publications, and participating in professional organizations. Being knowledgeable and up-to-date on the latest industry developments can make you a more valuable employee.
Specializing in a specific area of medical billing and coding, such as oncology or cardiology, can make you more in demand and potentially increase your earning potential.
Seek Out High-Paying Employers
Research and apply to employers in your area or industry that are known to pay their medical billing and coding specialists well.
Negotiate Salary
Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary when starting a new job or during a performance review. Be prepared to explain why you deserve a higher salary based on your experience and performance.
How Much More Do Medical Billing and Coding Specialists Make If They Have a Certification?
Certified medical billing and coding specialists typically earn higher salaries than non-certified professionals. This is because certification indicates that the specialist has met certain competency and education requirements, and has demonstrated proficiency in the field. In addition, some employers may require or prefer certification for hiring and advancement opportunities. The amount of difference in pay between certified and non-certified medical billing and coding specialists can vary depending on factors such as experience, job location, and employer.
On average, certified specialists may earn 20-30% more than their non-certified counterparts.
Below we look at the median income based on different types of certification.
Average Medical Billing and Coding Income Based on Certification
| Credential | Median Income |
|---|---|
| Certified Professional Biller (CPB®) | $56,981 |
| Certified Professional Coder (CPC®) | $58,895 |
| Certified Outpatient Coder (COC®) | $64,267 |
| Certified Professional Coder-Payer (CPC-P™) | $62,494 |
| Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC®) | $58,730 |
| Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC®) | $64,192 |
| Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA®) | $72,304 |
| Certified Documentation Expert-Outpatient (CDEO®) | $72,619 |
| Certified Professional Coder-Instructor (CPC-I™) | $76,804 |
| Certified Professional Practice Manager (CPPM®) | $75,699 |
| Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO®) | $81,495 |
| AVERAGE | $67,680 |
What Are Some of These Highest Paying Certified Medical Billing and Coding Jobs?
Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO)
A Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO®) is responsible for ensuring that an organization is complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards. They work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and government, and are responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring compliance programs. This involves staying up-to-date on changing regulations and providing training and guidance to staff to ensure that they are following best practices. Additionally, CPCOs may conduct internal audits and investigations to identify potential areas of noncompliance and develop corrective action plans.
Certified Professional Coder-Instructor (CPC-I)
A Certified Professional Coder-Instructor (CPC-I™) is a certified medical coding instructor who has demonstrated proficiency in medical coding and education. CPC-Is are responsible for teaching and training students, medical coders, and healthcare professionals in the proper coding procedures, guidelines, and regulations of the healthcare industry. They often work in educational institutions or training programs, but may also work in healthcare facilities or consulting firms. In addition to teaching and training, CPC-Is may also conduct research and development to improve coding procedures and compliance in the healthcare industry.
Certified Professional Practice Manager (CPPM)
A Certified Professional Practice Manager (CPPM®) is responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of a medical practice or healthcare facility. This includes managing staff, finances, patient care, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. They are responsible for ensuring that the practice runs efficiently, providing high-quality patient care, and maintaining a positive reputation in the community. A CPPM® may also be involved in strategic planning, marketing, and business development to help grow and improve the practice.
Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA)
Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA®) is a certification for individuals who specialize in auditing medical documentation, coding, and billing practices. They are responsible for ensuring that medical practices and facilities comply with industry regulations, policies, and procedures, and that they are accurately billing for services provided. CPMA®s are trained to identify potential issues and discrepancies in medical records, billing practices, and coding procedures, and work to resolve any issues to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. They may work for a variety of healthcare organizations, including hospitals, medical practices, insurance companies, or government agencies.
How much more do medical billing and coding specialists earn over time?
Medical billing and coding specialists may earn more over time as they gain experience and advance in their careers. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in certain areas of medical billing and coding, such as working in a specific healthcare setting or focusing on a particular type of billing or coding. Additionally, obtaining additional certifications or education may also lead to higher salaries and more career opportunities.
Experience-based Income Averages for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists
| Years on the Job | Average Income |
|---|---|
| 0 – 1 | $45,701 |
| 2 – 4 | $49,244 |
| 5 – 9 | $55,472 |
| 10 – 15 | $60,892 |
| 16 – 20 | $65,254 |
| 21 – 25 | $69,609 |
| 26 – 30 | $71,412 |
| 31+ | $74,513 |
Additional Monetary Benefits of a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
In addition to salary, medical billing and coding specialists may receive other monetary benefits as part of their compensation package.
Health Insurance
Many employers offer medical, dental, and vision insurance to their employees, and may contribute to the cost of the premium.
Retirement Benefits
Some employers offer retirement plans, such as a 401(k) plan, and may provide a matching contribution.
Paid Time Off
Medical billing and coding specialists may be eligible for paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
Holiday Pay
Many employers offer holiday pay for days such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day.
Overtime Pay
Medical assistants who work more than 40 hours per week may be eligible for overtime pay, which is typically 1.5 times their regular hourly rate.
Bonuses
Some employers offer bonuses or incentive programs to reward employees for their hard work or to encourage them to meet certain performance goals.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Some employers offer flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible schedules, which can help employees balance their work and personal responsibilities.
Tuition Reimbursement
Some employers may offer tuition reimbursement programs to help employees continue their education and advance their careers.