How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in Pennsylvania
Medical Records Specialists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $46,730/year, which is 7% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $1,767/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a medical records specialists in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical records specialists positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical records specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 7,220 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in Lebanon and Harrisburg-Carlisle.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lebanon | $49K | $23.44/hr | 60 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $49K | $23.44/hr | 370 |
| Reading | $48K | $23.05/hr | 250 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $48K | $23.04/hr | 3,170 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $48K | $22.85/hr | 340 |
| Gettysburg | $47K | $22.54/hr | 30 |
| Williamsport | $47K | $22.5/hr | 70 |
| Pittsburgh | $47K | $22.46/hr | 1,710 |
| Chambersburg | $47K | $22.43/hr | 70 |
| Lancaster | $46K | $22.33/hr | 220 |
| Altoona | $46K | $22.08/hr | 70 |
| Erie | $45K | $21.64/hr | 120 |
| State College | $45K | $21.54/hr | 40 |
| York-Hanover | $45K | $21.5/hr | 230 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $44K | $21.33/hr | 230 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in Pennsylvania
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in Pennsylvania is $46,730 per year ($22.46/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $35,040 to $74,680.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in Pennsylvania?▼
Medical Records Specialists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical records specialists afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $46,730, a medical records specialists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,179/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in Pennsylvania are Lebanon ($48,760), Harrisburg-Carlisle ($48,750), Reading ($47,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for medical records specialists?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $46,730 salary, this means roughly $1,435/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.