How much does a Medical Examiner make?
Medical Examiners play a crucial role in the healthcare and legal systems. They investigate deaths to determine causes and manners. This job is vital, and it pays well. The average yearly salary for a Medical Examiner stands at $110,153. This makes it an attractive career for those interested in both medicine and law.
Looking at the salary data, Medical Examiners can expect to earn a range of incomes. At the entry level, a starting Medical Examiner might make around $35,000 per year. As experience grows, the salary can climb significantly. Those with more experience can earn upwards of $200,000 per year. This reflects the importance and complexity of the work they do. With dedication and expertise, the potential for higher earnings is substantial.
What are the highest paying cities for a Medical Examiner?

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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $178,463
Working in Salt Lake City, you'll find yourself in a city with a mix of urban and outdoor lifestyle. The state's Office of the Medical Examiner offers a chance to apply your skills in a community that values public health. The city's robust healthcare sector adds to the appeal of this role.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $177,470
In Seattle, you'll join a top-notch team of professionals at the King County Medical Examiner's Office. This city is known for its advanced medical facilities and research opportunities. Seattle offers a perfect blend of dynamic urban life and commitment to public safety.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $173,621
Houston is a bustling city with a demand for professionals in medical examination. The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is a key employer. The city's diverse population and vast healthcare industry provide a rich environment for your work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $168,631
San Diego offers a unique mix of sunny weather and cutting-edge medical research. Working here, you'll be part of a prestigious team at the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office. The city's reputation for innovation enhances the appeal of this profession.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $165,840
Richmond provides a balanced career with its well-regarded Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The city's rich history and diverse community offer a unique backdrop for your work. Richmond's commitment to public health creates a supportive work environment.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $156,208
In Phoenix, you'll find a growing demand for forensic expertise at the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office. The city's warm climate and expanding healthcare sector make it an attractive place to work. Phoenix values the role of forensic professionals in ensuring public safety.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $123,502
Indianapolis offers a stable environment with Marion County's Medical Examiner's Office. The city's central location and strong healthcare community make it ideal for professionals in this field. Indianapolis supports a career focused on public health and safety.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $119,956
Colorado Springs provides a serene setting with the El Paso County Coroner's Office. The city's outdoor lifestyle and advanced medical facilities offer a unique work environment. Colorado Springs values the contributions of forensic professionals to community safety.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $89,981
Des Moines offers a steady career with Polk County's Medical Examiner. The city's friendly atmosphere and strong healthcare sector make it a good place to work. Des Moines emphasizes the importance of forensic work in ensuring community well-being.
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What are the best companies a Medical Examiner can work for?

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State of Utah
Average Salary: $200,888
The State of Utah offers a high-paying opportunity for Medical Examiners. The state operates several locations, including Salt Lake City. Positions here provide excellent benefits and a chance to work in an environment that prioritizes public safety.
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Average Salary: $85,793
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provides competitive salaries for Medical Examiners. Operating in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, this role involves extensive forensic analysis and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
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APPS Paramedical
Average Salary: $74,600
APPS Paramedical offers a stable position for Medical Examiners with an average salary of $74,600. They are known for their supportive environment and have offices in various locations across the country.
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City of Indianapolis
Average Salary: $56,539
The City of Indianapolis provides a balanced salary for Medical Examiners at $56,539. They offer an opportunity to work in a vibrant urban setting and contribute to community health and safety.
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APPS
Average Salary: $35,000
APPS is another well-regarded company for Medical Examiners, offering a salary of $35,000. Their focus is on medical services, and they operate in multiple locations, providing a stable environment for career growth.
How to earn more as a Medical Examiner?
A Medical Examiner plays a key role in the justice system and public health. Working in this field offers a chance to make a significant impact. A Medical Examiner examines bodies to determine the cause of death. This job requires careful attention to detail and a strong knowledge of medicine. There are several ways to earn more in this important role.
First, gaining experience is crucial. More experienced Medical Examiners often earn higher salaries. Working in different environments and cases builds a solid foundation of knowledge. Certifications from respected organizations can also boost earnings. Specialization in areas like forensic pathology can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Working in a high-demand area or a major city often results in higher pay. Networking with peers and attending conferences can open doors to better-paying jobs. Continuous education and staying current with medical advancements can lead to more opportunities.
To summarize, here are some key factors for increasing earnings as a Medical Examiner:
- Gain experience in various settings and cases.
- Obtain certifications from reputable organizations.
- Specialize in forensic pathology or other high-demand areas.
- Work in high-demand areas or major cities.
- Network with peers and stay updated with medical advancements.



