Medical Billing And Coding Salaries in 2025: What to Expect

Key Takeaways

• In 2025, average salaries for U.S. medical billing and coding professionals are around $42,442 per year, but actual pay varies significantly by region, experience, and credentials. 

• Entry-level positions start around $30,000–$40,000, with experienced professionals and those in high-paying states reaching $60,000–$80,000 or more.

• Those just starting earn at the lower end, while experienced specialists (especially managers with additional credentials) can expect substantial increases.

• States like California, New York, and Alaska report the highest average salaries, especially in urban hospitals.

If you’ve ever been curious about the real numbers behind medical coding and billing salaries in 2025, you’re not alone. 

Maybe you’ve heard different figures from friends in the industry or wondered if certification really makes a difference. The truth is the salary of a medical coder and billing professional varies a lot—by state, experience, and even by the kind of clinic or company where you work. 

Let’s break down the facts so you know exactly what to expect if you’re heading into (or advancing within) the field this year.

So, How Much Can You Actually Make As A Medical Coder Or Biller?

The average salary for medical billing and coding professionals in the U.S. is around $42,442 per year as of mid-2025, or about $21.22 per hour^[1]. 

But averages never tell the full story. 

Entry-level roles usually start between $30,000 and $40,000, while the most experienced professionals and those in high-demand states can earn well over $60,000—sometimes reaching as high as $80,000 in places like California^[2].

If you’re thinking about hourly pay, states like California may offer $38.55 per hour on average, while entry-level positions in other areas might start closer to $15–$20 per hour. 

The Real Drivers Behind Salary Differences

Salary ranges in this field are anything but random. Here’s what really makes one person’s paycheck bigger than another’s:

1. Certifications And Credentials

Having a certification, like Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS), can boost your pay substantially. 

Data shows certified medical records specialists average $66,186 per year, compared to $61,022 for those without certification—a difference of more than 8%^[2]. If you hold multiple certifications, that number goes even higher.

2. Experience And Career Path

Just getting started? Expect to earn closer to the entry-level range. With a few years under your belt, salaries rise steadily—here’s a quick example of typical salary progression by experience:

• 0–1 year: $47,992
• 1–3 years: $50,851
• 4–6 years: $53,651
• 7–9 years: $55,091

Experienced billing managers or coders with advanced credentials can break into the $60,000–$80,000 bracket.

3. Your Geographic Location

States like California, New York, and Alaska report the highest average salaries, with California leading at more than $80,000 per year. States with lower costs of living often have lower pay, with Mississippi reporting averages closer to $56,000^[2]. 

Urban areas and major metro hospitals typically pay more than small clinics or rural practices. 

4. The Work Setting

Hospitals often offer higher pay than private practices, while insurance companies and remote roles can provide flexibility but might pay less. Remote and hybrid jobs are more common than ever, offering strong starting rates and the chance to grow from home. 

What’s Got The Job Market Buzzing?

The outlook for medical billing and coding remains strong. 

Job openings are expected to grow across the next decade, thanks to ongoing healthcare demand, evolving regulations, and expanded insurance coverage.  

Plus, the shift toward value-based care models is speeding up. This means new billing codes, more emphasis on accuracy, and closer collaboration between clinical and billing staff. Those who upskill with technology or specialize in high-demand areas are well-positioned for advancement and salary boosts.

What About U.S. And Global Markets?

Salaries vary globally, too. 

In the U.S., for example, entry-level medical coders typically earn $30,000–$40,000 per year, with salaries rising considerably as you gain experience and seniority. A medical biller generally averages around $42,000 per year, but this can double or more for professionals working at top firms or in major cities.

Benefits You Can Count On (Beyond Your Paycheck)

It’s not just about take-home pay. Most employers in the field offer benefits like:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plans
• Tuition assistance for further education
• Continuing education allowances (especially valuable for staying certified and in-demand)

How To Maximize Your 2025 Coding And Billing Salary

Here are actionable steps if you’re looking to grow your earning power:

• Aim for nationally recognized certifications, as they open doors to higher pay and better jobs.
• Keep up with industry updates and technology. AI and automation are here to stay and can make your daily work smoother while opening new doors for advancement.
• Seek jobs in high-demand regions or specialties, like oncology or surgical coding.
• Don’t skip salary negotiation.Resources like the AAPC salary survey can give you data to make your case^[3]. 
• Stay open to remote or hybrid roles, which often pay well and offer flexibility.

Here’s An Example Of How Sara Grew Her Coding Career:

She started off at a small clinic in Dallas at $36,000 per year. After gaining 3 years of experience and a second certification, she moved to a large hospital where she now earns $56,000.

Meanwhile, Alex, who began as a home-based medical coder in a small town earning $32,000 per year, now leads a team for a global billing company. He now brings in over $65,000 annually after five years on the job.

How CombineHealth Helps You Move Ahead

2025 has set a new standard for medical coding and billing professionals with solid pay, strong job prospects, and the chance to build a real career with flexibility. With the right tools and up-to-date skills, you can expect much more than just a paycheck: you can expect a pathway to real career satisfaction.

At CombineHealth, we know how important your earnings and growth potential are. Our platform streamlines workflows for clinics and billing companies, helping you reduce claim denials and increase accuracy. With built-in analytics, automation updates, and support for your whole team, it’s easier to focus on what matters most: your future and your patients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a typical day look like for a medical billing and coding professional?

A medical biller and coder spends much of their day working with patient records, converting clinical procedures and diagnoses into standardized codes used for insurance claims and billing. Most roles require attention to detail, familiarity with medical terminology, and comfort using computer systems. Work settings include hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and increasingly, remote or home-based positions.

2. How much can I expect to earn as a medical biller or coder in 2025?

The average annual salary in the U.S. is around $42,442, though pay may range from $30,000–$40,000 for entry-level roles up to $60,000–$80,000 or more for experienced professionals or those in high-demand areas and with certifications. Factors influencing salary include location, level of experience, job setting, and credentials.

3. Is certification necessary to get a job in this field? What certifications are valued?

While you can technically enter the field without certification, most employers prefer or require candidates to have credentials like Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS). Certification can significantly increase your earning potential—by over 8% on average—and open more job opportunities. Holding multiple certifications is particularly advantageous.

4. What is the job outlook for medical billing and coding in the coming years?

The outlook is strong. Job openings are expected to grow 8%–16% over the next decade. This trend is driven by increased healthcare demand, evolving insurance regulations, and broader adoption of technology in healthcare. The profession offers good job security and flexibility, especially as remote options expand.

5. What is the difference between medical billing and medical coding?

Medical coders review patient health information and assign standardized codes for each procedure, diagnosis, or service. Medical billers use those codes to create and submit insurance claims, ensure accuracy in billing, and follow up on payments. In some settings, especially smaller practices, one person may do both; in larger organizations, these are often separate roles.

References

^[1]Cal Regional. https://calregional.com/blog/what-is-the-salary-for-medical-billing-and-coding-in-2025/, sourced July 25, 2025

^[2]AAPC. https://www.aapc.com/resources/salary-by-location, sourced July 25, 2025

^[3]AAPC. https://www.aapc.com/resources/medical-coding-salary-survey, sourced July 25, 2025

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