As of January 01, 2026, the average hourly rate for a Medical Records Coder III in the United States is $32, which translates to an annual salary of about $66,323.
However, the hourly wage can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a detailed look at the typical pay range per hour:
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A Medical Records Coder III'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 Records Coder III'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Medical Records Coder III | $63,887 |
| Intermediate Level Medical Records Coder III | $64,445 |
| Senior Level Medical Records Coder III | $66,918 |
| Specialist Level Medical Records Coder III | $70,140 |
| Expert Level Medical Records Coder III | $70,371 |
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 Records Coder IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Initiative | 2.39% |
| Physiology | 4.41% |
| Medical Billing | 1.85% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Insight
|
$71,629 |
8%
|
|
Interviewing
|
$70,966 |
7%
|
|
Integrity
|
$70,302 |
6%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$69,639 |
5%
|
|
Accountability
|
$68,976 |
4%
|
|
Clinical Documentation
|
$68,976 |
4%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Medical Records Coder IIIs enter the field with a Associate's Degree 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 Records Coder III with a Associate's Degree is between $57,742 and $61,982).
Medical Records Coder III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.5% |
| High School | 54.1% |
| Associates | 33.7% |
| Bachelors | 10.8% |
| Masters | 0.9% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Medical Records Coder III'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 January 01, 2026Salaries for a Medical Records Coder III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $52,817 in 2023 to around $52,946 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Medical Records Coder III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $52,817 |
| 2024 | $53,301 |
| 2025 | $52,946 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The highest-paid medical field in the USA includes surgical and procedural specialties like neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery, with average annual salaries of $600,000 or more. In contrast, Medical Records Coders earn between $54,353 and $70,983, with a mid-salary of $61,793, reflecting a significant difference in earnings within the medical profession.
Medical records coding is a promising career, driven by the aging population's increasing need for healthcare services. With a projected 8.7% employment growth from 2023 to 2033, it offers competitive salaries ranging from $54,353 to $70,983, with a median salary of $61,793. This field provides stability and opportunities for advancement.
While having a felony on your record can make it more challenging to secure a job in medical billing and coding, it doesn't make it impossible. Medical Records Coders can expect salaries ranging from $54,353 to $70,983, with a median salary of $61,793. Persistence and skill development can help overcome barriers in this field.
What state pays the most? Based on salary data, medical records coders earn between $54,353 and $70,983, with a mid-salary of $61,793. The highest salaries can vary significantly by state, reflecting differences in demand and cost of living. Always check local data for the most accurate figures.
Medical Records Coders in the US earn between $54,353 and $70,983 annually, with a median salary of $61,793. This translates to an hourly wage ranging from approximately $26.10 to $34.14, with the median hourly rate around $29.69. Various factors, including experience and location, can influence these earnings.
To achieve a six-figure salary as a medical coder, focus on obtaining certifications like AHIMA CCS, CDIP, and AAPC CPC. Mastery in outpatient and inpatient coding, along with auditing skills, is essential. Additionally, management skills and a Six Sigma Green Belt certification can enhance your prospects. Currently, salaries range from $54,353 to $70,983, with potential for growth.
Salary.com salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons are derived from both employer job postings and third-party data sources. We also provide multiple percentiles of salary information for your reference, click here to know Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial to Getting Pay Equity Right. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
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