Medical billing and coding professionals play a crucial role in the healthcare system. They ensure that patient records are accurate, insurance claims are processed correctly, and healthcare providers receive timely reimbursement. In Texas, the demand for billing and coding specialists continues to rise alongside the state’s rapidly expanding healthcare sector. For anyone considering this career path, understanding the salary landscape in Texas is essential for setting realistic expectations and planning for long-term growth.
This article provides an in-depth look at billing and coding salaries in Texas, breaking down average pay rates, influencing factors, job outlook, and comparisons with national figures. Whether you are just entering the healthcare field, considering certification, or looking to relocate, this guide will help you grasp what to expect in terms of income potential.
Billing and Coding Salary in Texas
The average salary for medical billing and coding specialists in Texas generally ranges from $38,000 to $62,000 per year, depending on experience, certification, and location within the state. According to recent labor data, the median annual salary for this profession in Texas is approximately $46,500, which is closely aligned with the national average.
To make this information easier to scan, here’s a snapshot of the salary landscape:
| Level of Experience | Average Annual Salary (Texas) | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $34,000 – $39,000 | $16.30 – $18.75 |
| Mid-Level (3–5 years) | $42,000 – $50,000 | $20.20 – $24.00 |
| Experienced (6–10 years) | $50,000 – $58,000 | $24.00 – $27.90 |
| Senior (10+ years) | $58,000 – $62,000+ | $27.90 – $29.80 |
Key takeaway: Entry-level salaries are competitive for a healthcare support role, but earning potential grows significantly with certifications and years of experience.
Factors That Influence Billing and Coding Salaries in Texas
Several elements contribute to the variations in salary for billing and coding professionals across the state. These include:
- Certification Status
- Holding credentials such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) can increase earning potential by 10–20%.
- Experience Level
- As seen in the table above, salaries climb steadily with years in the field. A seasoned coder with a decade of experience typically earns about $15,000–$20,000 more annually than an entry-level hire.
- Type of Employer
- Hospitals and specialty clinics often pay higher wages compared to smaller private practices.
- Location Within Texas
- Urban areas such as Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio tend to offer higher salaries than rural regions due to cost of living and demand for healthcare services.
- Work Setting
- Inpatient coding roles (hospital-based) often pay more than outpatient settings, as inpatient coding is typically more complex.
- Remote vs. On-Site
- Remote opportunities have grown, but compensation may vary depending on the employer’s policies and regional wage standards.
Billing and Coding Salaries in Major Texas Cities
Texas is geographically vast and economically diverse, which means salaries for billing and coding specialists differ across cities. Below is a closer look at average earnings in key metro areas:
| City | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | $48,500 – $55,000 | $23.30 – $26.40 |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $47,000 – $53,000 | $22.60 – $25.50 |
| Austin | $46,000 – $52,000 | $22.10 – $25.00 |
| San Antonio | $44,500 – $50,000 | $21.40 – $24.00 |
| El Paso | $42,000 – $47,000 | $20.20 – $22.60 |
| Lubbock | $41,500 – $46,000 | $19.95 – $22.10 |
Observation: Urban areas consistently offer higher salaries than smaller cities or rural parts of Texas. Houston leads due to its size, concentration of hospitals, and strong healthcare infrastructure.
Comparison: Texas vs. National Average
When comparing Texas billing and coding salaries to national figures, the state is largely on par:
- National median annual salary: Approximately $47,000
- Texas median annual salary: Approximately $46,500
Texas falls slightly below the national median but remains competitive, particularly when adjusted for cost of living. In many Texas cities, the cost of housing and daily expenses is lower than in major U.S. metro areas, which can stretch income further.
Salary Growth Potential with Certifications
Earning specialized certifications is one of the most effective ways to increase salary as a billing and coding professional. Some of the most recognized certifications include:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC) – American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) – American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA) – AHIMA
- Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) – AAPC
Professionals with one or more of these certifications often earn 10–30% more than their uncertified peers. For example, a certified coding specialist in Texas may earn an average of $52,000 to $60,000 annually, compared to around $40,000–$45,000 for someone without certification.
Career Advancement and Higher Earning Potential
Billing and coding is often an entry point into broader careers within healthcare administration. With additional education and certifications, professionals can move into higher-paying roles such as:
- Health Information Manager – overseeing medical records departments (average salary in Texas: $70,000–$85,000).
- Compliance Auditor – ensuring regulatory and coding compliance (average salary: $65,000–$75,000).
- Clinical Documentation Specialist – working closely with providers to ensure accuracy in patient charts (average salary: $60,000–$70,000).
- Coding Educator/Trainer – teaching new coders and providing continuing education (average salary: $60,000–$72,000).
These positions often require additional experience and credentials, but they demonstrate the potential career ladder available to motivated billing and coding professionals.
Job Outlook for Billing and Coding Specialists in Texas
According to labor market projections, employment for medical records and health information technicians (including billing and coding specialists) is expected to grow by 8–10% over the next decade in Texas. This is slightly higher than the national average growth rate, largely driven by:
- Texas’s expanding population (over 30 million residents and counting).
- Increased demand for healthcare services in both urban and rural areas.
- Greater reliance on electronic health records (EHRs) and compliance with insurance regulations.
The consistent demand for skilled billing and coding professionals makes this a stable career choice with long-term job security.
Billing and Coding Salary by Workplace Setting
The type of employer also has a noticeable impact on salary levels. Below is a breakdown by common workplace environments in Texas:
| Work Setting | Average Annual Salary (Texas) |
|---|---|
| Hospitals (Inpatient) | $50,000 – $58,000 |
| Specialty Clinics | $47,000 – $53,000 |
| Outpatient Centers | $45,000 – $51,000 |
| Physician’s Offices | $42,000 – $47,000 |
| Insurance Companies | $48,000 – $54,000 |
| Remote/Contract Positions | $44,000 – $52,000 |
Hospitals and insurance companies tend to pay the highest, while small private practices offer lower salaries but may provide more flexible schedules and closer working environments.
Remote Billing and Coding Salaries in Texas
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward remote work in many industries, including healthcare administration. Today, many Texas employers offer hybrid or fully remote billing and coding roles.
Average salaries for remote roles:
- Entry-level: $38,000 – $43,000
- Mid-career: $45,000 – $52,000
- Experienced: $52,000 – $60,000
While some employers pay slightly less for remote work, many offer competitive compensation, making this an attractive option for coders seeking work-life balance.
Benefits and Perks Beyond Salary
When evaluating job opportunities, it’s important to consider the total compensation package, not just salary. Billing and coding professionals in Texas often receive:
- Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- Retirement plans (401k or pension options)
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
- Tuition reimbursement or professional development support
- Flexible scheduling or remote options
These benefits can add thousands of dollars in value annually, enhancing the overall attractiveness of the career.
Historical Salary Trends in Texas
Over the past decade, salaries for billing and coding professionals in Texas have steadily increased. While growth has not always been dramatic, it has been consistent, reflecting the expanding healthcare sector and the rising complexity of insurance and compliance requirements.
- 2013–2015: Average salaries hovered around $35,000–$40,000.
- 2016–2018: A modest increase brought averages closer to $40,000–$44,000.
- 2019–2021: Salaries rose to $44,000–$48,000, driven in part by the shift toward electronic health records and the growing need for coders trained in compliance.
- 2022–2025: Current averages now range from $46,000–$52,000, with certified coders earning significantly more.
The trend shows stable upward movement, and with healthcare projected to keep growing in Texas, salaries are expected to continue their gradual climb.
Entry Requirements and Education
One of the appealing aspects of a billing and coding career is that it does not require a four-year college degree. Entry is accessible, but training and certification are crucial for maximizing salary potential.
- Minimum Requirement: High school diploma or GED.
- Preferred Training: Completion of a medical billing and coding program (typically 9–12 months at vocational schools or community colleges).
- Certifications: Strongly encouraged, as they have a direct impact on salary.
Note: Employers in large urban hospitals often require certification, while smaller private practices may hire non-certified individuals at lower pay rates.
Billing and Coding Salaries Compared to Related Healthcare Jobs in Texas
It can be helpful to compare billing and coding salaries to other healthcare support roles in Texas.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary (Texas) |
|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $46,500 |
| Medical Assistant | $37,000 |
| EKG Technician | $44,000 |
| Dental Assistant | $41,500 |
| Pharmacy Technician | $37,500 |
| Health Information Technician | $48,000 |
Billing and coding salaries are higher than many comparable healthcare support roles and are closely aligned with health information technician pay.
Cost of Living Considerations
When evaluating salary, cost of living plays a crucial role. Texas offers several advantages compared to other states:
- No state income tax – workers take home more of their earnings.
- Housing affordability – while prices vary, cities like San Antonio and El Paso remain far more affordable than coastal cities like Los Angeles or New York.
- Transportation costs – car ownership is common, but gas prices are typically lower than the national average.
This means a $46,500 salary in Texas stretches further than the same salary in higher-cost states.
Gender Pay in Billing and Coding
Billing and coding is a profession with a high percentage of female employees, but pay disparities are relatively small compared to other industries. Data indicates:
- Women coders in Texas: Average $46,000 annually.
- Men coders in Texas: Average $48,000 annually.
While the gap exists, it is narrower than the national workforce average. Certification and specialization tend to reduce this gap even further.
Future Outlook for Billing and Coding in Texas
Texas is among the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with a booming population and healthcare expansion. This ensures long-term demand for billing and coding specialists. Several trends will shape the profession:
- Greater demand for certified coders – Employers increasingly prefer certified candidates due to the complexity of coding systems.
- Growth of telehealth – Remote coding services will expand as telemedicine becomes mainstream.
- Technology integration – Coders skilled in navigating electronic health records (EHRs) and compliance software will have a competitive edge.
- Specialization – Coders focusing on high-demand areas such as oncology, cardiology, or inpatient hospital coding may command higher pay.
Actionable Tips for Increasing Salary
For billing and coding professionals in Texas looking to boost their income, here are proven strategies:
- Pursue Certification: Aim for at least one major credential (CPC, CCS, CCA, or CIC).
- Specialize: Focus on a high-demand medical specialty (orthopedics, cardiology, oncology).
- Gain Experience: Each additional year in the field typically increases earning potential.
- Consider Remote Work: Expand your opportunities beyond local employers.
- Advance Education: Consider pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in health information management for supervisory roles.
- Network Professionally: Join organizations such as AAPC or AHIMA for career support, job leads, and salary negotiation tools.
Pros and Cons of Billing and Coding Careers in Texas
Like any career, medical billing and coding has both advantages and challenges.
Pros:
- Competitive salary for an entry-level healthcare role.
- No requirement for a four-year degree.
- Strong job security in a growing healthcare market.
- Opportunities for remote work.
- Clear career advancement pathways.
Cons:
- Entry-level pay may feel modest in major metro areas.
- Work can be repetitive and detail-heavy.
- Certification requires time and money investment.
- Deadlines and productivity standards can be demanding.
Testimonials from Texas Billing and Coding Professionals
Hearing directly from those in the field provides valuable context beyond numbers.
- “I started coding in San Antonio with no certification at $16 an hour. After getting my CPC, my pay jumped to $22 an hour within two years.” – Jessica, CPC.
- “In Houston, hospital inpatient coding pays well, but it’s challenging. I now make over $55,000 a year, but the learning curve was steep.” – Marcus, CCS.
- “Remote work has been a game changer. I live in El Paso, but I code for a Dallas company and earn $50,000 annually.” – Elena, CPC.
These stories illustrate how certification, experience, and work setting directly impact earnings.
Conclusion
Billing and coding is a stable, rewarding career choice in Texas. With consistent salary growth, strong demand, and clear pathways for advancement, professionals in this field can build a long-term future in healthcare without the need for advanced degrees.
For those willing to invest in certification and skill development, the salary potential in Texas compares favorably to many other healthcare support roles. As the state’s healthcare system continues to expand, billing and coding professionals will remain essential, well-compensated contributors to patient care and financial efficiency.