Position
Salary

How much does a Medical Examiner make?

The average salary for a Medical Examiner is $117,171 per year in the US.

Medical examiners play a crucial role in the healthcare system. They study bodies to find out the cause of death. These professionals work in hospitals, medical examiners' offices, and coroners' offices. The average yearly salary for a medical examiner is around $117,171. This salary range can differ based on experience, location, and the specific duties performed.


The salary of a medical examiner can vary greatly. For those just starting out, salaries might be lower. As they gain experience, they can earn more. The top earners make significantly more, with salaries over $300,000. Here are some salary ranges:

  • $32,050 to $60,358 for entry-level positions
  • $88,666 to $116,974 for mid-career professionals
  • $145,282 to $343,439 for top earners
This range shows that with time and experience, a medical examiner can expect to see their salary grow.

View Medical Examiner jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Medical Examiner?

Cities like Houston, TX, and Seattle, WA, stand out for offering top salaries to Medical Examiners. Houston provides an average salary of $173,958, while Seattle offers $138,874. These locations attract professionals looking for competitive pay and robust career opportunities. Indianapolis, IN, Colorado Springs, CO, and Chicago, IL also provide attractive salaries, making them strong options for Medical Examiners.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Medical Examiner jobs, highlighting Houston, TX with the highest at $173,958 and Dallas, TX with the lowest at $40,023.
  1. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $173,958
    In Houston, professionals in this role work alongside top medical institutions, ensuring accurate death investigations. The city’s diverse population and large healthcare system provide varied and rich experiences.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Houston, TX


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $138,874
    Seattle offers a collaborative environment for those in this field, with cutting-edge research facilities. The city's commitment to public health makes this an exciting place to contribute to community well-being.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $134,401
    In Indianapolis, experts in this role enjoy working with a reputable medical examiner’s office. The city’s strong focus on healthcare innovation provides a dynamic setting for this career.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Indianapolis, IN


  4. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $134,285
    Colorado Springs is a vibrant city for medical professionals. The Rocky Mountains’ fresh air and beautiful surroundings offer a unique lifestyle while working in this crucial role.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $97,278
    Chicago offers a dynamic and fast-paced environment for those in this line of work. The city's extensive healthcare network provides many opportunities for growth and collaboration.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Rochester, MN
    Average Salary: $81,383
    Rochester, home to the renowned Mayo Clinic, is a hub for medical professionals. Working here means being part of groundbreaking research and patient care.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Rochester, MN


  7. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $40,023
    Dallas provides a thriving environment for those in this field. The city’s large and diverse population ensures a steady stream of cases, offering valuable experience and growth opportunities.
    Find Medical Examiner jobs in Dallas, TX

What are the best companies a Medical Examiner can work for?

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania offers one of the highest salaries for Medical Examiners, averaging $84,069 per year. This state job provides competitive pay and benefits, making it an attractive choice. Another good option is the State of Michigan, with an average salary of $58,019, offering a solid package for those in this career. APPS / Portamedic also pays well for this role, with an average salary of $35,000 per year. While lower than the others, it still provides a decent income for qualified candidates.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Medical Examiner jobs, highlighting Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with the highest at $84,069 and APPS / Portamedic with the lowest at $35,000.
  1. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
    Average Salary: $84,069
    The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania offers rewarding Medical Examiner positions. These roles are available in various locations across the state, including cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg. Employees perform critical duties such as conducting autopsies and providing expert testimony in legal cases.


  2. State of Michigan
    Average Salary: $58,019
    The State of Michigan provides opportunities for Medical Examiners in cities such as Detroit, Lansing, and Grand Rapids. These professionals analyze bodies to determine causes of death and support law enforcement agencies. Michigan values the expertise of its Medical Examiners in ensuring public safety and justice.


  3. APPS / Portamedic
    Average Salary: $35,000
    APPS / Portamedic offers positions for Medical Examiners in various cities across the country. These roles involve assisting in mobile medical units and emergency situations. This company is committed to providing essential medical services, and Medical Examiners play a vital role in their operations.

How to earn more as a Medical Examiner?

A Medical Examiner often works in a demanding environment that requires a mix of medical knowledge, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills. Those seeking to increase their earnings in this field can explore several avenues. Specializing in a niche area within forensic pathology can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Experienced examiners who develop expertise in areas such as pediatric pathology or toxicology often find themselves in higher demand and command higher salaries.

Another factor that can significantly impact earnings is geographical location. Medical Examiners in urban areas or regions with a high demand for forensic services can expect to earn more than those in rural areas. Additionally, those who choose to work in private practice or for private firms, rather than solely for government agencies, may find more lucrative opportunities available. Certifications and continued education also play a crucial role in increasing potential earnings. Obtaining advanced certifications and staying updated with the latest forensic techniques and technologies can make a candidate more valuable to employers.

Finally, experience matters. Experienced Medical Examiners often earn higher salaries than their less experienced counterparts. Building a solid reputation and a robust professional network can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. By focusing on these areas, Medical Examiners can enhance their career prospects and increase their earnings.

Here are five factors to consider:

  1. Specialization in niche areas
  2. Geographical location
  3. Type of employer (government vs. private)
  4. Advanced certifications and education
  5. Professional experience and reputation

Currently 47 Medical Examiner job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Medical Examiner in the US?

Learn what a Medical Examiner does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Medical Examiner today.
Position
Overview
Medical Examiner
47 Job Openings