How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in Arkansas
Medical Records Specialists in Arkansas earn a median salary of $39,920/year, which is 21% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $1,315/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in Arkansas
Becoming a medical records specialists in Arkansas
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists positions in Arkansas typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical records specialists positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification
Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical records specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Arkansas
Arkansas employs 1,640 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in Jonesboro and Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in Arkansas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jonesboro | $41K | $19.86/hr | 70 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway | $41K | $19.67/hr | 630 |
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers | $41K | $19.55/hr | 240 |
| Hot Springs | $37K | $17.74/hr | 50 |
| Fort Smith | $37K | $17.66/hr | 80 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in Arkansas
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in Arkansas?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in Arkansas is $39,920 per year ($19.19/hr). This is 21% below the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $32,430 to $67,010.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in Arkansas?▼
Medical Records Specialists positions in Arkansas typically require Bachelor's degree. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical records specialists afford to live in Arkansas?▼
At the median salary of $39,920, a medical records specialists in Arkansas would take home approximately $2,727/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 51.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in Arkansas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in Arkansas are Jonesboro ($41,300), Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($40,910), Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($40,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Arkansas have state income tax for medical records specialists?▼
Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $39,920 salary, this means roughly $1,389/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.