Coding Specialist
Coding Specialist salary in Buffalo, NY (2026)
How much does a coding specialist make in Buffalo, NY? Pay ranges, what influences compensation, and tips for applying.
Median ~$55k · Data as of March 2026
| Source | Median | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
 Indeed | — | $28.19/hr |
 ZipRecruiter | $53,101 | $26.00/hr |
 Glassdoor | $57,000 | $27.00/hr |
Compensation snapshot
Combined from reported medians, percentile spreads, salary floors/ceilings, and hourly rates across aggregated market samples (sources not shown).
At a glance
A Coding Specialist supports healthcare revenue and operations by translating clinical documentation into standardized codes for billing, claims, and recordkeeping. They review documentation for coding accuracy and compliance with payer and regulatory requirements.
What moves the number
- Certification Level: Advanced certifications such as Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) significantly increase pay by validating expertise in complex coding systems.
- Experience and Seniority: More years of specialized coding experience, especially in inpatient or outpatient settings, lead to higher compensation levels.
- Specialization and Role Complexity: Positions involving complex coding duties, such as coding and reimbursement specialists or inpatient coding, typically offer higher salaries than entry-level coding roles.
- Geographic Location and Market Demand: Compensation varies by location, with salaries in Dallas ranging widely due to local healthcare market demand and employer competition for skilled coders.
Applying for this role
Have relevant coding credentials ready (e.g., CPC/CCS/CCSP or similar) and be prepared to discuss your experience with coding accuracy and audit processes. Review common coding guidelines and be ready to share examples of how you handled documentation gaps or payer edits.