Medical Records Specialists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 187,910 medical records specialists, and they earn a median of $50,250/year. The range runs from $36K to $81K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level medical records specialists start around $36K. The gap between that and the median ($50K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $81K, 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 | $65K | 370 |
| Rhode Island | $63K | 850 |
| Hawaii | $63K | 450 |
| Washington | $62K | 5,280 |
| Nevada | $61K | 2,980 |
| New York | $60K | 8,510 |
| California | $60K | 19,750 |
| Minnesota | $59K | 3,250 |
| Maryland | $59K | 2,810 |
| South Carolina | $59K | 2,940 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in the United States is $50,250 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $35,780, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,950.
What education do you need to become a medical records specialists?▼
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 medical records specialists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for medical records specialists.
What are the highest paying states for medical records specialists?▼
The highest paying states for medical records specialists are District of Columbia ($64,690), Rhode Island ($63,330), Hawaii ($62,990), Washington ($62,250), Nevada ($60,530). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.