Introduction: Why This Isn’t Just a Desk Job
People often think medical billing and coding is just data entry. Sit at a desk, punch in numbers, file claims, done. But if you’re already in this field—or seriously considering it—you know it’s more than that.
You’re decoding clinical language, applying complex reimbursement rules, ensuring providers get paid, and protecting practices from compliance audits. The stakes are high. And so is the potential for solid income—if you play it right.
In this guide, we’re going deeper than the national average. We’ll explore:
- Real salary ranges (entry-level to expert)
- How credentials and location affect pay
- Which industries pay top dollar
- Remote and freelance income opportunities
- Career strategies to boost your earnings
Let’s get into it.
What Exactly Does a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Do?
To understand salary, you need to understand the job.
A medical billing and coding specialist converts clinical care into standardized codes used in:
- Insurance claims (CPT, ICD-10, HCPCS)
- Patient billing
- Reimbursement processes
- Revenue cycle audits
- Risk adjustment (especially for Medicare Advantage)
There are two core roles:
- Coders — Assign diagnosis and procedure codes based on chart notes
- Billers — Submit claims, track reimbursements, appeal denials, and post payments
Sometimes it’s one person doing both. Sometimes it’s split across teams. Either way, your accuracy directly affects how—and how much—a healthcare provider gets paid.
Average Medical Billing and Coding Salary (2025 Data)
According to the latest AAPC and BLS reports, the national average salary for certified medical billing and coding specialists is $56,290/year.
But that’s a starting point. Here’s how it breaks down:
| Career Stage | Typical Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–7 years) | $50,000 – $65,000 |
| Senior-Level (8+ years or specialized certifications) | $70,000 – $85,000+ |
🔎 Uncertified coders average $46,000. Certified coders with 2+ credentials average $63,000+. That’s a nearly 40% bump just for certifications.
Medical Billing and Coding Salary by State
Where you work matters—sometimes more than how well you work. Here’s a breakdown of top-paying states in 2025:
| State | Average Salary | Why It Pays More |
|---|---|---|
| California | $67,000 | High cost of living, strong union presence |
| Washington | $63,000 | Tech-forward health systems, remote work flexibility |
| Massachusetts | $61,000 | Dense healthcare job market |
| Alaska | $60,000 | Fewer coders, more demand |
| New Jersey | $59,000 | High volume outpatient systems |
Tip: Even if you live in a low-wage state like Mississippi or Oklahoma, remote jobs can pay California rates—if you position yourself right.
Salary by Work Setting: Where You Clock In Makes a Difference
Let’s talk industries. Some pay more because the work is higher stakes—or the billing is more complex.
| Work Setting | Typical Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitals (Inpatient) | $60,000 – $75,000 | Must know DRGs, inpatient coding, audits |
| Large Outpatient Clinics | $55,000 – $70,000 | Fast-paced, complex claim structures |
| Private Practices | $45,000 – $55,000 | Steady but limited growth |
| Billing Companies | $50,000 – $65,000 | Good for coders managing multiple specialties |
| Insurance Companies | $58,000 – $72,000 | Risk adjustment, compliance, auditing |
| Freelance/Contract | $30–$60/hour | High if you’re specialized, credentialed, and fast |
Remote, Part-Time & Freelance Salary Options
Remote Coding and Billing
Post-pandemic, remote coding is booming. Employers are more flexible, and workers love the no-commute setup.
- Remote biller (full-time): $50,000 – $65,000
- Remote coder (certified, specialized): $60,000 – $80,000
- Remote QA auditor: $75,000+ with experience
How to qualify for remote roles:
- Strong references or 2+ years’ experience
- Proficiency in EMRs (Epic, Cerner, AdvancedMD)
- Secure home workspace with HIPAA-compliant tools
Freelance Income Potential
Freelancers or consultants can charge:
- $25–$50/hour for general coding/billing
- $70+/hour for specialized audits or risk adjustment
You may handle:
- Overflow coding for practices
- Coding audits for compliance
- Claims denials analysis
- Remote patient billing services
Part-Time Roles
Often found in:
- Small private practices
- Urgent care clinics
- Academic health centers
Expect pro-rated salaries around $22–$32/hour, depending on your speed and accuracy.
Certification: The Most Reliable Salary Multiplier
This isn’t a guess. It’s backed by data.
| Certification | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| No Certification | ~$46,000 |
| CPC (Certified Professional Coder) | ~$58,000 |
| CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) | ~$60,000 |
| CIC (Certified Inpatient Coder) | ~$62,000 |
| CRC (Risk Adjustment) | ~$65,000 |
| CPB (Billing) + CPC | ~$61,000 |
Pro tip: Dual-certification coders can easily cross the $70K mark—especially with experience in multi-specialty environments.
Internal link idea: “Which Medical Coding Certification Is Best for You?”
Medical Billing and Coding Salary vs. Medical Assistant Salary
A common comparison—and a useful one.
| Role | Average Salary | Upward Mobility |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | ~$39,000 | Clinical growth track (LPN, RN) |
| Biller/Coder | ~$56,000 | Career path in auditing, compliance, HIM management |
Bottom line: coding pays better long-term, especially if you’re detail-oriented and enjoy working with data.
Salary Growth: What Actually Moves the Needle
Here’s what gets you paid more—not just faster typing.
1. Specialize Early
Learn cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, or behavioral health coding. These niches often pay more because they’re complex and in demand.
2. Go Where the Money Is
Yes, move states if you have to. Or don’t—just work remotely for higher-paying regions.
3. Master Denials
Coders/billers who understand appeals, denials, and payer logic are invaluable. Especially in private practice.
4. Level Up with Tech
Get comfortable with EMRs and claim scrubbers (like Availity or Waystar). Billing tech skills can be the difference between being replaceable and being promoted.
5. Build a Portfolio
Freelancers who show clean, compliant work samples and verified client references command 25–50% higher rates.
Career Outlook: Is This a Dead-End Job? Not Even Close.
The U.S. healthcare system is getting more complex, not less. Coders and billers are more essential than ever.
BLS Forecast (2024–2030):
- Job growth: 8% (faster than average)
- New roles emerging: Risk adjustment, AI audit oversight, value-based coding
- Automation? It’s happening—but only replaces low-skill, manual coding. Not expert review, audit, or complex cases.
Key Takeaways: Know Your Value
- The average medical billing and coding salary ranges from $35K to $85K+
- Top earners are certified, specialized, and often working remotely or freelance
- Certifications, experience, and niche knowledge directly boost income
- Career stability and growth potential are strong through at least 2030
- You don’t need a 4-year degree to break $70K in this field—just focus and strategy