How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in California
Medical Records Specialists in California earn a median salary of $59,700/year, which is 19% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $2,599/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in California
Becoming a medical records specialists in California
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical records specialists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical records specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 19,750 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Vallejo.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $87K | $41.81/hr | 1,000 |
| Vallejo | $75K | $36.19/hr | 190 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $75K | $36.16/hr | 1,410 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $73K | $35.18/hr | 2,200 |
| Napa | $62K | $29.9/hr | 40 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $61K | $29.38/hr | 280 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $61K | $29.24/hr | 150 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $57K | $27.39/hr | 50 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $56K | $27.15/hr | 200 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $56K | $26.92/hr | 1,680 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $54K | $25.93/hr | 7,820 |
| Chico | $54K | $25.92/hr | 90 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $54K | $25.84/hr | 340 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $53K | $25.7/hr | 1,330 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $53K | $25.27/hr | 80 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in California
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in California?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in California is $59,700 per year ($28.7/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $41,740 to $104,560.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in California?▼
Medical Records Specialists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical records specialists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $59,700, a medical records specialists in California would take home approximately $4,011/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($86,960), Vallejo ($75,270), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($75,210). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for medical records specialists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $59,700 salary, this means roughly $1,874/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.