Coding Specialist
Coding Specialist salary in Houston, TX (2026)
How much does a coding specialist make in Houston, TX? Pay ranges, what influences compensation, and tips for applying.
Median ~$61k · Data as of March 2026
| Source | Median | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
 Glassdoor | $56,684 | $27.00/hr |
 Indeed | — | $27.42/hr |
 ZipRecruiter | $50,500 | $26.16/hr |
 Salary.com | $66,210 | — |
Compensation snapshot
Combined from reported medians, percentile spreads, salary floors/ceilings, and hourly rates across aggregated market samples (sources not shown).
At a glance
Reviews and assigns accurate medical codes (e.g., ICD/CPT) for diagnoses and procedures using patient records and coding guidelines. Supports clean claims and reimbursement by validating documentation, resolving coding edits, and assisting with billing-related workflows in a healthcare setting.
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
Prepare a coding-focused resume highlighting coding systems (ICD-10-CM, CPT) and any specialty areas (e.g., inpatient/outpatient). Be ready to discuss accuracy/audit practices, claim denials or edits you’ve resolved, and any certifications (such as CPC/CCS) relevant to Houston-area employers.