How much does a Clinical Laboratory Scientist make?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists play a key role in healthcare. They perform tests on blood and body fluids to help doctors diagnose and treat patients. This important work comes with a fair salary. The average yearly salary for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist is $117,911. This means they earn a good amount of money for their skills and expertise.
The salary can vary based on experience and location. Many Clinical Laboratory Scientists start earning around $56,000 per year. As they gain more experience, their salary can grow. Top earners can make over $174,000 per year. This range offers a lot of opportunities for career growth. Clinical Laboratory Scientists often find roles in hospitals, clinics, and research facilities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $151,041
Modesto offers a growing demand for skilled laboratory professionals. With prominent healthcare facilities like Memorial Medical Center, job opportunities abound. The city’s supportive community enhances the work environment.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $140,130
Los Angeles presents a bustling environment with a high need for laboratory experts. Hospitals such as Cedars-Sinai and Kaiser Permanente provide ample job opportunities. The diverse population also offers varied experiences.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $130,488
In San Diego, healthcare facilities like Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health are hiring. The city’s reputation for innovation makes it a great place for lab professionals to advance their careers.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $111,464
San Francisco is a hub for technology and healthcare. Companies like UCSF Health and Stanford Health Care offer exciting career paths. The city’s progressive atmosphere encourages professional growth.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $87,751
Buffalo has a strong demand for lab scientists. Local institutions like Kaleida Health and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center provide solid career opportunities. The city's affordable living costs are an added benefit.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $73,326
Houston offers a dynamic job market with major employers like Baylor College of Medicine and Houston Methodist. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle suits those who thrive in a busy environment.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $66,378
San Antonio is a thriving city for healthcare professionals. Organizations such as University Health System and Baptist Health System offer numerous opportunities. The city’s rich culture enhances the overall experience.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $64,809
Madison, known for its education and healthcare, has excellent job prospects. UW Health and the American Family Children's Hospital are top employers. The city’s vibrant community adds to the professional environment.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $64,471
Corpus Christi is an emerging city for lab professionals. Hospitals like CHRISTUS Spohn and Bay Area Medical Center provide good opportunities. The city’s coastal location offers a relaxed lifestyle.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $63,600
Cincinnati boasts a strong healthcare sector with employers like Cincinnati Children's Hospital and The Christ Hospital. The city’s central location makes it accessible, offering both professional and personal benefits.
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What are the best companies a Clinical Laboratory Scientist can work for?

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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $157,980
El Camino Health offers a wide range of benefits for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. These positions require a high level of skill and experience. They are located in Mountain View, Los Altos, and Los Gatos.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $151,115
Sutter Health provides a competitive salary for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They emphasize teamwork and the use of cutting-edge technology. Sutter Health has locations throughout Northern California.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $136,279
At UCLA Health, Clinical Laboratory Scientists play a vital role in research and patient care. They benefit from the advanced facilities and resources of a top-tier academic medical center. Locations include Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
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CHOC Children's
Average Salary: $133,420
CHOC Children's specializes in pediatric care and offers rewarding positions for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They are located in Orange County, California, providing care to children in a supportive environment.
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PIH Health
Average Salary: $130,182
PIH Health values the work of Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They offer a supportive work environment and have facilities in Los Angeles County, providing excellent patient care.
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Sharp HealthCare
Average Salary: $128,085
Sharp HealthCare provides a comprehensive benefits package for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They are located in San Diego and focus on delivering high-quality patient care.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $125,433
Kaiser Permanente offers a competitive salary for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They emphasize innovation and have locations throughout California and the Northwest.
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Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $125,117
Keck Medicine of USC offers a collaborative environment for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They focus on research and patient care and are located in Los Angeles.
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Guardant Health
Average Salary: $124,655
Guardant Health provides exciting opportunities for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They focus on developing innovative tests and are located in Redwood City.
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University of Southern California
Average Salary: $122,528
The University of Southern California offers a dynamic work environment for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They are involved in teaching and research and are located in Los Angeles.
How to earn more as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?
Becoming a Clinical Laboratory Scientist offers many opportunities for professional growth and financial rewards. Individuals in this role can find ways to increase their earnings through various means. A dedicated approach to education, experience, and networking can pave the way for higher salaries.
Here are key factors to consider to earn more as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist:
- Advanced Certifications: Gaining certifications in specialized areas can boost earning potential.
- Additional Experience: More years of experience often lead to higher salary offers.
- Leadership Roles: Taking on managerial or supervisory positions can increase income.
- Geographic Location: Working in areas with higher living costs typically offers better pay.
- Networking: Building connections within the industry can lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
Pursuing these factors requires dedication and ongoing commitment to professional development. Each step taken towards these goals can result in a rewarding increase in earnings.



