As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Meter Reader in the United States is $56,226 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, a Meter Reader's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A 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 a 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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Meter Reader | 0-1 years | $56,226 |
| Meter Maintenance Technician | 3-5 years | $89,243 |
| Meter Operations Supervisor | 5+ years | $91,602 |
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 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
|
$69,158 |
23%
|
|
Customer Focus
|
$65,784 |
17%
|
|
Renewable Energy
|
$60,162 |
7%
|
|
Leadership
|
$60,162 |
7%
|
|
Innovation
|
$59,600 |
6%
|
|
Safety Policies and Procedures
|
$58,475 |
4%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many 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 a Meter Reader with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $50,926 and $56,636).
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 a 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 May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a 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 Operations Supervisor | $97,922 | 74% |
| Meter Maintenance Technician | $89,243 | 59% |
| Oilwell Pumper | $60,167 | 7% |
Salaries for a 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 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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A Meter Reader's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Meter Reader earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Meter Reader is $70,918.
The highest pay for Meter Reader is $67,188.
The lowest pay for Meter Reader is $45,954.
Responsible for reading electric, gas, or water meters. Keeps track of their use by recording appropriate information. Inspects meters for damages or defects. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area.
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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