Data Entry Keyers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 135,280 data entry keyers, and they earn a median of $39,850/year. The range runs from $30K to $57K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level data entry keyers start around $30K. The gap between that and the median ($40K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $57K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $52K | 320 |
| Massachusetts | $47K | 1,840 |
| Rhode Island | $46K | 290 |
| Connecticut | $46K | 890 |
| California | $46K | 14,040 |
| Oregon | $46K | 1,180 |
| New Mexico | $45K | 410 |
| Washington | $45K | 1,640 |
| Maine | $44K | 200 |
| New Jersey | $43K | 5,240 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a data entry keyers make?▼
The median data entry keyers salary in the United States is $39,850 per year ($19/hour). Entry-level positions start around $30,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $56,930.
What education do you need to become a data entry keyers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for data entry keyers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for data entry keyers.
What are the highest paying states for data entry keyers?▼
The highest paying states for data entry keyers are District of Columbia ($51,860), Massachusetts ($46,930), Rhode Island ($46,290), Connecticut ($46,020), California ($45,680). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.