Phlebotomists are in high demand at the moment and demand for phlebotomists is not expected to slow down. That has resulted in higher salaries across the United States for phlebotomists and more options for better work environments. Phlebotomists play an important role in healthcare by drawing blood from patients, processing it, and preparing specimens for testing. This job requires extensive training and knowledge of medical terminology as well as lab safety protocols.
How Much Do Phlebotomists Get Paid?
There are many different sources for salary information available on the web, we prefer to stick with two of the more trusted sources, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and ZipRecruiter. As of the latest data available in the summer of 2023, the average annual salary according to the BLS was $40,580, or an hourly pay rate of $19.51. ZipRecruiter recorded the average annual salary at $38,240 per year or $18 per hour.
According to the BLS, most phlebotomists can expect a salary range of $30,250 – $51,610, or $14.54 – $24.81 per hour.
| Category | Hourly Wage | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $14.54 | $30,250 |
| 25th Percentile | $16.84 | $35,020 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $18.53 | $38,530 |
| Average | $19.51 | $40,580 |
| 75th Percentile | $21.77 | $45,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $24.81 | $51,610 |
While phlebotomy salaries are lower when compared to some other medical professions, they are still competitive and offer a great opportunity to those looking for a challenging and rewarding career. Additionally, they are a great stepping stone for many workers as training and certification only take a few weeks to complete and will open the door to many other medical roles.
Phlebotomy Salary by State
Below you will find phlebotomist salary by state data including hourly wages, average monthly salaries, and average annual salaries. This information comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and represents data from 2022.
State | Hourly Wage | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
Alabama | $16.11 | $2,793 | $33,520 |
Alaska | $21.11 | $3,658 | $43,900 |
Arizona | $19.47 | $3,375 | $40,500 |
Arkansas | $16.42 | $2,846 | $34,150 |
California | $24.27 | $4,206 | $50,470 |
Colorado | $20.29 | $3,517 | $42,200 |
Connecticut | $21.22 | $3,678 | $44,130 |
Delaware | $21.26 | $3,685 | $44,220 |
District of Columbia | $22.67 | $3,930 | $47,160 |
Florida | $18.07 | $3,132 | $37,580 |
Georgia | $19.05 | $3,302 | $39,620 |
Hawaii | $21.90 | $3,796 | $45,550 |
Idaho | $21.22 | $3,678 | $44,130 |
Illinois | $19.89 | $3,448 | $41,370 |
Indiana | $17.26 | $2,992 | $35,900 |
Iowa | $17.94 | $3,110 | $37,320 |
Kansas | $17.94 | $3,110 | $37,320 |
Kentucky | $17.19 | $2,980 | $35,760 |
Louisiana | $15.97 | $2,768 | $33,210 |
Maine | $17.70 | $3,068 | $36,820 |
Maryland | $21.70 | $3,761 | $45,130 |
Massachusetts | $22.85 | $3,961 | $47,530 |
Michigan | $18.79 | $3,257 | $39,080 |
Minnesota | $19.67 | $3,410 | $40,920 |
Mississippi | $16.41 | $2,845 | $34,140 |
Missouri | $17.80 | $3,085 | $37,020 |
Montana | $18.18 | $3,152 | $37,820 |
Nebraska | $17.40 | $3,016 | $36,190 |
Nevada | $19.58 | $3,394 | $40,730 |
New Hampshire | $19.95 | $3,458 | $41,490 |
New Jersey | $20.73 | $3,593 | $43,120 |
New Mexico | $17.22 | $2,985 | $35,820 |
New York | $22.58 | $3,913 | $46,960 |
North Carolina | $18.40 | $3,189 | $38,270 |
North Dakota | $19.43 | $3,368 | $40,410 |
Ohio | $17.48 | $3,030 | $36,360 |
Oklahoma | $16.87 | $2,924 | $35,090 |
Oregon | $21.06 | $3,650 | $43,800 |
Pennsylvania | $19.43 | $3,368 | $40,410 |
Puerto Rico | $10.47 | $1,816 | $21,790 |
Rhode Island | $21.44 | $3,717 | $44,600 |
South Carolina | $17.72 | $3,072 | $36,860 |
South Dakota | $16.80 | $2,913 | $34,950 |
Tennessee | $17.07 | $2,958 | $35,500 |
Texas | $17.81 | $3,087 | $37,040 |
Utah | $17.43 | $3,021 | $36,250 |
Vermont | $19.16 | $3,322 | $39,860 |
Virginia | $19.45 | $3,372 | $40,460 |
Washington | $22.64 | $3,924 | $47,090 |
West Virginia | $16.83 | $2,917 | $35,000 |
Wisconsin | $19.27 | $3,341 | $40,090 |
Wyoming | $17.56 | $3,044 | $36,530 |
Phlebotomist Salary and Employment by Metro
It’s not just the state where you work that impacts your salary as a phlebotomist, but also the area within your state. As you might imagine, in larger metro areas and areas with a higher concentration of healthcare facilities, phlebotomists can demand higher salaries. Below you can find salary data as well as the total number of phlebotomists employed in each metro area listed within the Bureau of Labor Statistics database for 2022. You can use the search bar function to seek out specific cities or areas within any state.
Salary By Metros
| wdt_ID | Area Name | Employment | Hourly average wage | Annual average wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abilene, TX | 80 | 15.05 | 31,310.00 |
| 2 | Aguadilla-Isabela, PR | 30 | 9.93 | 20,660.00 |
| 3 | Akron, OH | 270 | 18.18 | 37,810.00 |
| 4 | Alaska nonmetropolitan area | 40 | 23.48 | 48,830.00 |
| 5 | Albany, GA | 70 | 17.21 | 35,790.00 |
| 6 | Albany, OR | 40 | 19.70 | 40,970.00 |
| 7 | Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | 240 | 19.14 | 39,810.00 |
| 8 | Albuquerque, NM | 480 | 17.63 | 36,670.00 |
| 9 | Alexandria, LA | 130 | 15.30 | 31,830.00 |
| 10 | Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | 420 | 20.00 | 41,600.00 |
| 11 | Altoona, PA | 40 | 16.85 | 35,040.00 |
| 12 | Amarillo, TX | 100 | 16.46 | 34,230.00 |
| 13 | Ames, IA | 60 | 16.81 | 34,960.00 |
| 14 | Anchorage, AK | 120 | 20.58 | 42,810.00 |
| 15 | Ann Arbor, MI | 290 | 19.28 | 40,110.00 |
| 16 | Appleton, WI | 130 | 18.78 | 39,060.00 |
| 17 | Arecibo, PR | 60 | 10.41 | 21,660.00 |
| 18 | Asheville, NC | 250 | 17.65 | 36,720.00 |
| 19 | Athens-Clarke County, GA | 160 | 18.18 | 37,820.00 |
| 20 | Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 3,030 | 20.31 | 42,250.00 |
| 21 | Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ | 110 | 21.50 | 44,720.00 |
| 22 | Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC | 340 | 17.73 | 36,880.00 |
| 23 | Austin-Round Rock, TX | 880 | 19.39 | 40,330.00 |
| 24 | Bakersfield, CA | 190 | 21.71 | 45,160.00 |
| 25 | Balance of Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area | 120 | 18.31 | 38,090.00 |
| 26 | Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | 1,520 | 20.67 | 43,000.00 |
| 27 | Bangor, ME | 100 | 18.27 | 38,010.00 |
| 28 | Barnstable Town, MA | 50 | 24.05 | 50,020.00 |
| 29 | Baton Rouge, LA | 470 | 16.75 | 34,840.00 |
| 30 | Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | 150 | 17.02 | 35,400.00 |
| 31 | Beckley, WV | 50 | 15.13 | 31,480.00 |
| 32 | Bellingham, WA | 40 | 20.89 | 43,450.00 |
| 33 | Bend-Redmond, OR | 100 | 21.69 | 45,110.00 |
| 34 | Big Thicket Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area | 120 | 16.29 | 33,880.00 |
| 35 | Billings, MT | 130 | 18.58 | 38,650.00 |
| 36 | Birmingham-Hoover, AL | 870 | 16.68 | 34,690.00 |
| 37 | Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford, VA | 60 | 17.96 | 37,350.00 |
| 38 | Bloomington, IL | 40 | 18.04 | 37,530.00 |
| 39 | Bloomington, IN | 50 | 16.33 | 33,970.00 |
| 40 | Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA | 110 | 18.32 | 38,100.00 |
| 41 | Boise City, ID | 350 | 21.44 | 44,590.00 |
| 42 | Border Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area | 90 | 14.80 | 30,780.00 |
| 43 | Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | 1,700 | 23.40 | 48,660.00 |
| 44 | Boulder, CO | 90 | 20.75 | 43,160.00 |
| 45 | Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT | 290 | 22.46 | 46,720.00 |
| 46 | Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | 230 | 14.52 | 30,210.00 |
| 47 | Brunswick, GA | 60 | 17.08 | 35,530.00 |
| 48 | Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY | 460 | 19.44 | 40,430.00 |
| 49 | Burlington, NC | 0 | 18.39 | 38,240.00 |
| 50 | Burlington-South Burlington, VT | 80 | 18.24 | 37,940.00 |
| Area Name | Employment | Hourly average wage | Annual average wage |
Factors influencing phlebotomist salaries
Phlebotomist salaries can vary based on several factors. Understanding these factors is crucial in assessing earning potential and planning a successful career in phlebotomy. The following are key factors that influence phlebotomist salaries:
1. Geographic location
Salaries for phlebotomists can vary significantly depending on the geographic location. Factors such as the cost of living, demand for phlebotomy services, and regional economic conditions can impact salary ranges. Metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living often offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses.
2. Level of experience
Experience plays a significant role in determining phlebotomist salaries. As phlebotomists gain more experience and proficiency in their craft, they become more valuable assets to employers. Experienced phlebotomists often command higher salaries due to their expertise, ability to handle complex cases, and demonstrated track record of delivering accurate results.
3. Educational background and certifications
The level of education and certifications obtained can also influence phlebotomist salaries. Phlebotomists who have completed formal training programs, such as certificate or diploma programs, may be eligible for higher salaries compared to those without formal education. Additionally, holding certifications, such as the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) credential, can enhance professional credibility and potentially lead to increased earning potential.
4. Type of employer (hospital, clinic, laboratory, etc.)
The type of employer can have an impact on phlebotomist salaries. Phlebotomists employed in hospitals, medical centers, or large healthcare organizations may have access to better benefits, higher pay scales, and potential career advancement opportunities. On the other hand, phlebotomists working in smaller clinics or laboratories may have a different salary structure based on the organization’s budget and resources.
| Sector | Average Hourly Wage | Average Salary | Total Phlebotomists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $19.45 | $40,460 | 127,830 |
| Administrative and Support | $20.33 | $42,280 | 5,890 |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $21.12 | $43,930 | 1,200 |
| Educational Services | $20.65 | $42,940 | 630 |
| Wholesale Trade | $18.58 | $38,650 | 620 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government | $20.70 | $43,060 | 410 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $21.08 | $43,840 | 290 |
| Other Services (except Public Administration) | $27.11 | $56,380 | 220 |
| Total | $19.51 | $40,580 | 137,090 |
Other Considerations in Phlebotomist Salary
Phlebotomists often have the opportunity to earn additional income through shift differentials and overtime pay. Healthcare facilities may offer higher hourly rates for evening, night, or weekend shifts to incentivize phlebotomists to work during non-traditional hours. Additionally, phlebotomists may have the option to work overtime hours, which typically come with increased pay rates. Taking advantage of these opportunities can significantly boost a phlebotomist’s overall salary.
Benefits and perks commonly offered to phlebotomists
Beyond base salary, phlebotomists may receive a range of benefits and perks that contribute to their overall compensation package. These can include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Some employers may also offer tuition reimbursement for phlebotomists pursuing further education or certifications. When evaluating salary offers, it’s important to consider the value of these benefits and perks, as they can significantly enhance a phlebotomist’s overall financial well-being.
Opportunities for additional income through specialized skills or certifications
Phlebotomists who acquire specialized skills or certifications beyond the basic requirements can often command higher salaries. Examples of specialized skills include the ability to perform arterial punctures or specialized laboratory procedures. By expanding their skill set and pursuing additional certifications, phlebotomists can position themselves for higher-paying roles in specialized areas such as research laboratories or outpatient clinics. These specialized skills and certifications open doors to opportunities for increased income and career advancement.
Considering shift differentials, overtime opportunities, benefits, and specialized skills can provide a more comprehensive understanding of a phlebotomist’s earning potential. While base salary is an important consideration, these additional factors can significantly impact overall compensation and contribute to a more financially rewarding career as a phlebotomist.
It’s important for phlebotomists to consider the full spectrum of salary-related factors when evaluating job opportunities and planning their career paths. By considering shift differentials, overtime opportunities, benefits, and the potential for additional income through specialized skills or certifications, phlebotomists can make informed decisions about their salary expectations and work towards maximizing their earning potential in the field.
Career Outlook and Salary Trends
The career outlook for phlebotomists is promising, with steady job growth expected in the coming years. As the healthcare industry continues to expand, the demand for skilled phlebotomists is also increasing. Factors such as an aging population, advances in medical technology, and the need for diagnostic testing contribute to the positive job outlook for phlebotomists. This growth in demand can have a direct impact on salary trends, as employers may offer more competitive compensation packages to attract and retain qualified phlebotomists.
Career Outlook and Salary Trends
The career outlook for phlebotomists is promising, with steady job growth expected in the coming years. As the healthcare industry continues to expand, the demand for skilled phlebotomists is also increasing. Factors such as an aging population, advances in medical technology, and the need for diagnostic testing contribute to the positive job outlook for phlebotomists. This growth in demand can have a direct impact on salary trends, as employers may offer more competitive compensation packages to attract and retain qualified phlebotomists.
Market changes influence salaries
The market demand for phlebotomists can have a significant influence on salary levels. When there is a high demand for phlebotomists and a limited supply of qualified professionals, employers may offer higher salaries to attract and retain talent. Conversely, in areas with an oversupply of phlebotomists, the competition for positions can lead to lower salary offers. Understanding the current job market in your specific region or city can provide insights into salary expectations and help you make informed decisions about your career path.
Emerging trends that may influence future salary expectations
Several emerging trends have the potential to influence future salary expectations for phlebotomists. These include advancements in technology, changes in healthcare delivery models, and evolving regulatory requirements. For example, the increased use of point-of-care testing and automation in specimen processing may impact the demand for phlebotomists in certain settings. Additionally, shifts in healthcare policies or reimbursement structures can influence the financial resources available to healthcare facilities, which, in turn, can impact salary trends. Staying informed about these emerging trends and adapting your skills and knowledge accordingly can help you stay competitive in the job market and position yourself for potential salary growth.
By considering the career outlook, market demand, and emerging trends in the field, phlebotomists can gain a better understanding of salary trends and make informed decisions about their professional development. Being aware of the projected job growth, market demand in their specific region, and the potential impact of emerging trends allows phlebotomists to position themselves strategically for future salary expectations and career opportunities.
Negotiating Salary as a Phlebotomist
Negotiating salary is an important step in securing a competitive compensation package as a phlebotomist. Here are some tips and strategies to consider during the negotiation process:
- Research industry standards: Before entering salary negotiations, research the average salary range for phlebotomists in your geographic area. Understanding the industry standards will provide a benchmark for your negotiation and help you gauge what is reasonable to expect.
- Highlight your qualifications: During negotiations, emphasize your qualifications, such as relevant experience, certifications, and additional skills that make you a valuable asset to the organization. Showcase how these qualifications can contribute to the success of the team and positively impact patient care.
- Know your worth: Recognize your own value and the unique contributions you bring to the table. Be confident in discussing your skills, achievements, and the impact you can make as a phlebotomist. This self-assurance can strengthen your negotiation position.
- Consider the total package: Remember that salary is not the only component of your compensation package. Take into account other benefits and perks, such as healthcare coverage, retirement plans, vacation time, and professional development opportunities. These can add significant value to your overall compensation.
The value of experience, certifications, and additional skills
Experience, certifications, and additional skills can significantly enhance your value as a phlebotomist and provide leverage in salary negotiations. Emphasize the following points:
- Experience: Highlight your years of experience in the field and any notable achievements or responsibilities you have taken on. Demonstrating a track record of success and the ability to handle challenging situations can justify a higher salary.
- Certifications: If you hold relevant certifications, such as Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) or Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPT II), emphasize the specialized knowledge and skills these certifications represent. Employers recognize the value of certified professionals and may be more inclined to offer competitive compensation.
- Additional skills: If you possess additional skills or qualifications beyond basic phlebotomy, such as proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems or experience with specific laboratory equipment, emphasize how these skills can contribute to improved efficiency, accuracy, and patient care. Employers may recognize the added value you bring and be willing to negotiate a higher salary.
Research industry standards and market conditions
Researching industry standards and market conditions is crucial in salary negotiations. Understanding the salary range for phlebotomists in your area allows you to set realistic expectations and negotiate effectively. Consider the following steps:
- Explore salary surveys: Consult reputable salary surveys specific to the healthcare industry or phlebotomy profession. These surveys provide valuable data on average salaries, regional differences, and trends in the field. Use this information as a starting point for your negotiation strategy.
- Consider local market conditions: Factors such as the demand for phlebotomists, cost of living, and the competitiveness of the job market in your area can influence salary ranges. Research local market conditions and economic factors that may impact salary negotiations.
- Seek advice from professionals: Connect with other phlebotomists or healthcare professionals who have experience in negotiating salaries. Seek their insights and advice on navigating the negotiation process, understanding local market dynamics, and maximizing your earning potential.