How much does a Medical Laboratory Scientist make?
A Medical Laboratory Scientist plays a key role in the healthcare industry. They analyze body fluids and tissue samples to help diagnose and treat diseases. The average yearly salary for this profession is around $72,000. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer.
The salary range for Medical Laboratory Scientists can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $45,500 per year. The highest 10% earn over $126,000. Most professionals fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries ranging from $60,000 to $97,000. This wide range reflects the different levels of responsibility and expertise within the field. Those with more experience or specialized skills often earn more. Geographic location also plays a role, with higher salaries typically found in urban areas and regions with higher living costs.
What are the highest paying cities for a Medical Laboratory Scientist?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $90,881
In Washington, DC, professionals work in top-tier hospitals and research institutions. The city offers many opportunities to collaborate with leading healthcare providers. Notable employers include MedStar Health and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $89,681
Seattle offers a vibrant environment for those in the lab field. The city's tech-driven culture extends to healthcare, with many opportunities for innovation. Key employers include Seattle Children's Hospital and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $86,199
Portland provides a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. The city is home to several renowned healthcare facilities. Employers like Oregon Health & Science University offer a chance to work with cutting-edge technology.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $81,509
Anchorage offers a challenging yet rewarding environment. The city's remote location means professionals often work in isolated settings. Key employers include Alaska Native Medical Center and Providence Alaska Medical Center.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $81,442
Philadelphia is rich in medical history and offers many opportunities for growth. The city's numerous hospitals provide diverse experiences. Notable employers include Penn Medicine and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $78,325
Minneapolis offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong healthcare sector. The city's many hospitals provide ample opportunities for career advancement. Employers like Mayo Clinic and Allina Health are prominent in the area.
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Lakeland, FL
Average Salary: $77,409
Lakeland provides a warm climate and a growing healthcare sector. The city's hospitals offer a supportive environment for professionals. Key employers include Lakeland Regional Health and AdventHealth.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $77,236
Yuma offers a quieter lifestyle with a strong community focus. The city's healthcare facilities provide a close-knit work environment. Notable employers include Yuma Regional Medical Center and Banner Health.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $77,113
Providence offers a mix of urban and suburban living. The city's healthcare institutions are known for their quality care. Key employers include Rhode Island Hospital and Lifespan.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $76,702
Baltimore provides a vibrant urban environment with a rich medical history. The city's hospitals offer many opportunities for professional development. Notable employers include Johns Hopkins Medicine and University of Maryland Medical Center.
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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: $98,851
The University of Washington offers rewarding roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They work in state-of-the-art labs in Seattle and other locations. The university values research and teaching, providing a dynamic work environment.
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Seattle Children's
Average Salary: $94,108
Seattle Children's is a top place for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They focus on pediatric care and have facilities in Seattle and other areas. Employees enjoy a supportive atmosphere and the chance to make a big difference.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $91,548
Kaiser Permanente provides excellent opportunities for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations across the country. The company offers a stable work environment and a focus on patient care.
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Oregon Health & Science University
Average Salary: $89,519
Oregon Health & Science University is known for its research and teaching. Medical Laboratory Scientists work in modern labs in Portland and other places. The university offers a collaborative and innovative work setting.
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Samaritan Health Services
Average Salary: $87,050
Samaritan Health Services provides good roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have facilities in Oregon and Washington. The company values community care and offers a supportive work environment.
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Global Technical Talent
Average Salary: $84,842
Global Technical Talent offers diverse opportunities for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They work in labs across the country. The company focuses on providing quality healthcare services.
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Emergency Physicians Professional Association
Average Salary: $83,886
Emergency Physicians Professional Association provides roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists in emergency settings. They have locations in various states. The company values quick and accurate lab results.
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Allina Health
Average Salary: $83,811
Allina Health offers rewarding roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have facilities in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The company focuses on patient care and offers a supportive work environment.
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MD Anderson Cancer Center
Average Salary: $83,545
MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading place for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They focus on cancer research and treatment. They have facilities in Texas and other areas. The center offers a dynamic and impactful work environment.
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Fairview Health Services
Average Salary: $79,833
Fairview Health Services provides good roles for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They have facilities in Minnesota and other states. The company values community care and offers a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Medical Laboratory Scientist?
A Medical Laboratory Scientist can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas of expertise, one can enhance their value in the job market. Specialization in areas such as microbiology, hematology, or clinical chemistry can lead to higher-paying positions. Additionally, gaining certifications in specialized areas can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
Continuing education and professional development are key to earning more. Attending workshops, seminars, and conferences can provide new skills and knowledge. Networking with other professionals in the field can open doors to better job opportunities. Staying updated with the latest technology and techniques used in medical laboratories can also improve job performance and lead to higher pay. Finally, seeking positions in areas with a higher demand for laboratory scientists, such as urban centers or regions with a growing healthcare industry, can result in higher salaries.
Consider the following factors to increase earnings:
- Specialize in a high-demand area
- Obtain relevant certifications
- Pursue continuing education and training
- Network with other professionals
- Seek positions in high-demand areas



