How much does a Medical Laboratory Scientist make?
A Medical Laboratory Scientist plays a key role in diagnosing and treating patients. This important job brings in a solid salary. On average, a Medical Laboratory Scientist makes about $73,388 per year. This average helps to set a good expectation for those looking to enter this field.
The salary for this job can vary based on experience and location. The lowest 10 percent earn around $46,680, while the top 10 percent can make over $118,862 a year. Most Medical Laboratory Scientists fall somewhere in the middle. Here are the ranges to know:
- 10th percentile: $46,680
- 25th percentile: $61,116
- 50th percentile: $75,553
- 75th percentile: $97,207
- 90th percentile: $118,862
What are the highest paying cities for a Medical Laboratory Scientist?

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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $139,554
In Santa Rosa, medical professionals enjoy a balanced lifestyle. The area has many clinics and hospitals, including Kaiser Permanente. It offers a mix of urban and rural charm, making it a great place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $94,210
Working in the nation's capital brings many perks. You will find several top-tier hospitals like George Washington University Hospital. The city's vibrant culture and professional opportunities make it an attractive place for many.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $91,105
Seattle is known for its tech scene, but it also has excellent healthcare facilities. Companies like Seattle Children's Hospital offer dynamic environments. The city's progressive attitude and natural beauty make it a wonderful place to live and work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $90,488
Portland offers a mix of cutting-edge medical research and a laid-back lifestyle. Providence Health & Services is a prominent employer. The city's focus on wellness and green spaces creates a healthy environment for both work and personal life.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $83,933
Anchorage is a unique place to work, with stunning views and a strong sense of community. Employers like Alaska Native Medical Center provide excellent opportunities. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor adventures.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $83,495
Bend offers a blend of small-town charm and professional growth. St. Charles Bend is a key healthcare provider. The area's natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an appealing place for many.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $79,413
Minneapolis is a bustling city with a strong healthcare sector. Companies like Allina Health offer many opportunities. The city's cultural attractions and active lifestyle make it a great place to live and work.
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Lakeland, FL
Average Salary: $78,906
Lakeland provides a warm climate and a growing job market. Hospitals like Lakeland Regional Health are prominent employers. The city's welcoming atmosphere and outdoor activities make it a nice place to settle.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $77,826
Providence offers a rich history and modern opportunities. Lifespan and Rhode Island Hospital are key employers. The city's vibrant arts scene and coastal location add to its charm.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $76,817
Philadelphia is a historic city with a thriving healthcare industry. Hospitals like Penn Medicine offer many chances for growth. The city's cultural diversity and rich history make it a dynamic place to work.
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What are the best companies a Medical Laboratory Scientist can work for?

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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $99,444
The University Of Washington offers competitive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. Positions are available across various locations in Washington. The university is dedicated to excellence in healthcare and research.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $99,029
Kaiser Permanente provides high-paying roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists. The company operates in multiple states, offering extensive career opportunities. Kaiser Permanente values teamwork and innovation.
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Seattle Children's
Average Salary: $96,911
Seattle Children's offers a rewarding environment for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations in Washington and beyond. The company focuses on pediatric care and research, offering dynamic job opportunities.
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Oregon Health & Science University
Average Salary: $89,776
Oregon Health & Science University provides good salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in Oregon and have various healthcare facilities. The university emphasizes education, research, and patient care.
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Samaritan Health Services
Average Salary: $87,195
Samaritan Health Services offers competitive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations in Oregon and Washington. The company focuses on high-quality patient care and community health.
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Global Technical Talent
Average Salary: $86,812
Global Technical Talent provides various roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists with good salaries. They operate nationally, offering diverse job opportunities. The company values talent and professional growth.
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Allina Health
Average Salary: $85,655
Allina Health offers attractive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The company is committed to patient care and community health.
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MD Anderson Cancer Center
Average Salary: $84,278
MD Anderson Cancer Center provides good salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They are located in Texas. The center focuses on cancer treatment, research, and education, offering meaningful job opportunities.
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Emergency Physicians Professional Association
Average Salary: $83,591
Emergency Physicians Professional Association offers competitive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in multiple states. The association focuses on emergency medicine and patient care.
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Fairview Health Services
Average Salary: $83,055
Fairview Health Services offers attractive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations in Minnesota and South Dakota. The company is dedicated to patient care and community health.
How to earn more as a Medical Laboratory Scientist?
A career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist can offer a rewarding path with good earnings. Several factors can help a Medical Laboratory Scientist earn more. Attention to detail and accuracy is crucial, as small errors can lead to serious consequences. Pursuing additional certifications can make one more attractive to employers and open up higher-paying positions.
Gaining experience in specialized areas can lead to higher-paying roles. For example, working in genetics or microbiology can command higher salaries. Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that pay better. Moving to a different city or state with a higher cost of living can also increase pay. Employers in larger cities often offer higher wages to attract talent. Staying updated with the latest technology and techniques can make a Medical Laboratory Scientist more efficient and valuable.
To increase earnings, consider the following steps:
- Get additional certifications.
- Specialize in high-demand areas.
- Network with other professionals.
- Consider relocating to higher-paying areas.
- Stay current with new technology and techniques.



