As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Real Time Captioning in the United States is $45,601 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $22.
However, a Real Time Captioning's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Real Time Captioning's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
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 Real Time Captionings. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Word Processing | 100% |
Understanding how a Real Time Captioning'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 April 01, 2026
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TV captioners typically earn between $36,401 and $54,901 annually, with a median salary around $44,401. This range reflects the varying levels of experience and expertise in the field.
To become a real-time captioner, you typically need to obtain certification through exams such as the Certified Realtime Captioner or Registered Professional Reporter, often administered by the National Court Reporters Association. Salaries for real-time captioners range from $36,401 to $54,901, with a median salary of $44,401, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals in this field.
To become a certified real-time captioner, complete NCRA's CRC Certification Education or the Caption Masters training program. Then, pass the CRC online skills test at 180 wpm and the written knowledge test with 50 questions. Real-time captioners earn between $36,401 and $54,901, with a median salary of $44,401.
Captioning can offer a competitive salary. Based on the data, the minimum salary is $36,401, the mid-range salary is $44,401, and the maximum salary reaches $54,901. This indicates that while entry-level positions may start lower, experienced captioners can earn a substantial income, making it a viable career option.
The salary for real-time captioning professionals ranges from $36,401 to $54,901 annually, with a midpoint of $44,401. This reflects the expertise and demand for accurate captioning services. Rates typically start at $1.58 per minute, depending on the complexity and requirements of the project.
A good hourly rate for real-time captioning typically ranges from $36,401 to $54,901 annually, translating to approximately $17.50 to $26.40 per hour. While average transcription rates are around $25 to $40, real-time captioning may command higher rates due to its specialized nature and demand.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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