Coding Specialist
Coding Specialist salary in Phoenix, AZ (2026)
How much does a coding specialist make in Phoenix, AZ? Pay ranges, what influences compensation, and tips for applying.
Median ~$54k · Data as of March 2026
| Source | Median | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
 Indeed | — | $28.60/hr |
 ZipRecruiter | $53,790 | $25.86/hr |
 PayScale | — | $20.80/hr |
 Glassdoor | — | $26.00/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
In a medical/healthcare setting, a Coding Specialist reviews patient documentation and assigns accurate diagnosis and procedure codes using standardized coding systems. They ensure coding quality, support billing/reimbursement, and may handle coding edits and compliance checks.
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 to demonstrate your familiarity with medical coding rules, coding guidelines, and common coding systems (e.g., ICD/CPT/HCPCS) plus documentation review. If you have (or can pursue) relevant credentials such as CCS/Certified Coding Specialist or RHIT/CPC-type certifications, highlight them and be ready to discuss coding accuracy and audit results.