As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for an Utility Meter Reader in the United States is $56,300 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, an Utility Meter Reader's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Utility Meter Reader'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 an Utility Meter Reader'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 Utility Meter Reader | $55,297 |
| Intermediate Level Utility Meter Reader | $56,470 |
| Senior Level Utility Meter Reader | $58,852 |
| Specialist Level Utility Meter Reader | $59,107 |
| Expert Level Utility Meter Reader | $59,278 |
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 Utility Meter Readers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 14.93% |
| Data Entry | 2.6% |
| Google Maps | 1.91% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Plumbing
|
$69,249 |
23%
|
|
Customer Focus
|
$65,871 |
17%
|
|
Renewable Energy
|
$60,241 |
7%
|
|
Leadership
|
$60,241 |
7%
|
|
Innovation
|
$59,678 |
6%
|
|
Safety Policies and Procedures
|
$58,552 |
4%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Utility Meter Readers 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 an Utility Meter Reader with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $50,727 and $56,419).
Utility Meter Reader Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 12.5% |
| High School | 75.0% |
| Associates | 12.5% |
| Bachelors | 12.5% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how an Utility Meter Reader'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, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Utility Meter Reader, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Electric and Gas Distribution Operations Supervisor | $98,000 | 74% |
| Gas Meter Installation and Maintenance Mechanic | $89,200 | 58% |
| Lease Operator | $60,200 | 7% |
Salaries for an Utility Meter Reader can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $53,161 in 2023 to around $52,450 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Utility Meter Reader salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $53,161 |
| 2024 | $52,821 |
| 2025 | $52,450 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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