How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in Alabama
Medical Records Specialists in Alabama earn a median salary of $38,540/year, which is 23% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $1,192/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in Alabama
Becoming a medical records specialists in Alabama
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists positions in Alabama typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical records specialists positions in Alabama require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Alabama licensure or certification
Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical records specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Alabama
Alabama employs 2,630 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in Auburn-Opelika and Montgomery.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in Alabama
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn-Opelika | $46K | $21.96/hr | 80 |
| Montgomery | $42K | $20.32/hr | 200 |
| Tuscaloosa | $41K | $19.51/hr | 180 |
| Decatur | $40K | $19.09/hr | 60 |
| Birmingham | $40K | $19/hr | 600 |
| Anniston-Oxford | $39K | $18.53/hr | 50 |
| Mobile | $38K | $18.38/hr | 160 |
| Huntsville | $38K | $18.21/hr | 400 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals | $35K | $16.94/hr | 60 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley | $35K | $16.91/hr | 60 |
| Dothan | $33K | $16.05/hr | 120 |
| Gadsden | $33K | $15.79/hr | 50 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in Alabama
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in Alabama?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in Alabama is $38,540 per year ($18.53/hr). This is 23% below the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $28,300 to $62,660.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in Alabama?▼
Medical Records Specialists positions in Alabama typically require Bachelor's degree. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical records specialists afford to live in Alabama?▼
At the median salary of $38,540, a medical records specialists in Alabama would take home approximately $2,604/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in Alabama?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in Alabama are Auburn-Opelika ($45,680), Montgomery ($42,270), Tuscaloosa ($40,590). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Alabama have state income tax for medical records specialists?▼
Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $38,540 salary, this means roughly $1,762/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.