As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Medical Laboratory Technologist in the United States is $55,501 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, a Medical Laboratory Technologist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Medical Laboratory Technologist's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Medical Laboratory Technologist's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Phlebotomist | 0-0 years | $41,344 |
| Lab Support Clerk | 0-1 years | $42,513 |
| Certified MLT I | 1-3 years | $47,569 |
| Medical Laboratory Technologist | 3-5 years | $55,431 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Medical Laboratory Technologists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 3.88% |
| Quality Assurance | 3.14% |
| Instrument Maintenance | 2.24% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Leadership
|
$73,816 |
33%
|
|
Service Excellence
|
$63,826 |
15%
|
|
Critical Thinking
|
$59,386 |
7%
|
|
Decision Making
|
$59,386 |
7%
|
|
Specimen Collection
|
$57,721 |
4%
|
|
Patient Care
|
$57,721 |
4%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Medical Laboratory Technologists enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Medical Laboratory Technologist with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $56,947 and $60,419).
Medical Laboratory Technologist Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.3% |
| High School | 12.3% |
| Associates | 52.9% |
| Bachelors | 32.0% |
| Masters | 2.4% |
| Doctorate | 0.2% |
Understanding how a Medical Laboratory Technologist's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Salaries for a Medical Laboratory Technologist can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $55,549 in 2023 to around $54,660 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Medical Laboratory Technologist salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $55,549 |
| 2024 | $55,305 |
| 2025 | $54,660 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Many medical lab techs complete an Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology or a related field, which includes classroom learning and hands-on clinical training. Some may begin with on-the-job training before pursuing an Associate's program. The salary for medical laboratory technologists typically ranges from $54,501 to $67,001, with a mid-salary of $61,101.
The highest paying states for Medical Laboratory Technologists typically include California, Washington, New York, Alabama, and Pennsylvania. Salaries in this field range from a minimum of $54,501 to a mid-level of $61,101, with a maximum of $67,001, reflecting the demand and cost of living in these states.
A level 3 laboratory technician is an advanced professional who conducts complex laboratory tests and provides technical support. They typically earn between $54,501 and $67,001, with a median salary of $61,101. Their expertise is vital in ensuring accurate results and maintaining high standards in laboratory operations.
The transition from Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) to Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) can be achieved through an accredited online program designed for working MLTs. This program can be completed in as little as one year, with salaries for Medical Laboratory Technologists ranging from $54,501 to $67,001, depending on experience and location.
The salary range for Medical Laboratory Technologists is between $54,501 and $67,001, with a mid-salary of $61,101. While other medical technologists, such as Nuclear Medicine Technologists, can earn significantly more, Medical Laboratory Technologists have a competitive salary within the healthcare field.
Medical laboratory technologists generally do not find their jobs stressful, which positively impacts their career satisfaction. With a salary range from $54,501 to $67,001, along with a mid-salary of $61,101, many professionals in this field enjoy a stable income while maintaining a balanced work environment.
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