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Phlebotomy is a vital healthcare role you can break into without years of schooling. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), phlebotomists made a median salary of $37,380 in 2021.
Phlebotomists can also count on job security if they remain in the field. There’s a need for trained phlebotomists in medical facilities all over the country. In fact, the BLS is predicting a healthy 10.2% increase in phlebotomist roles through 2031.
D’Vaughn House, a phlebotomist, medical assistant, and research coordinator at the University of Cincinnati’s Infectious Diseases Research Unit, says that growth isn’t surprising. He says that healthcare would be unable to function without medical labs and the phlebotomists who collect specimens for them.
“In the healthcare system, doctors typically cannot diagnose a major illness without testing because insurance companies use medical labs to know how to make fact-based decisions,” House says. “The only way to do that is through collecting biological specimens. At all levels of health, medical labs serve as the most reliable fact-checking mechanism.” You can usually complete your education in less than a year, depending on how quickly you choose to move through a program. Read on to learn about the salary you might see when you finish your training program, and how your location, certifications, and experience can impact it.
Highest-Paying Cities for Phlebotomists
Where you live can make a major impact on the salary you earn as a phlebotomist. California is a top spot for high-paying phlebotomy jobs. In fact, nine of the highest-paying cities for phlebotomists are in the state. However, there are also high-paying pockets along the East Coast. Phlebotomists in New York City, Boston, and their surrounding suburban areas earn average salaries of over $40,000, according to the BLS.
Where are the most phlebotomists employed?
Factors that Impact Salary
Average salaries aren’t necessarily the number you’ll see on your contract. Your salary as a phlebotomist will depend on multiple factors. As is true in many careers, advancing your education, earning a professional certification, and gaining more experience can boost your salary. Your location and workplace can also make a big difference.
Overtime
Your flexibility and approach to work might also raise your paycheck. Overtime is regularly offered to phlebotomists, explains House, and since federal law requires that overtime hours are always paid at a rate of at least 1.5 times your normal rate, working overtime can add a significant amount to your take-home pay. Phlebotomists who can travel and visit medical offices that might not have phlebotomists on staff are in high demand as well and can earn additional compensation, House says.
“Phlebotomists are often needed in multiple areas at one time,” he explains. “Nearly all medical offices have labs, so (there is a need for) phlebotomists with a driver’s license who can remain flexible. These phlebotomists routinely travel when work is slow at their own clinic.”
Geography
Overall, phlebotomists enjoy the highest average salaries in California. However, other high-paying areas are located throughout the country. For instance, in New York, Alaska, and Washington, phlebotomists see median wages over $40,000.
Experience
Experience can help you increase your salary. You might be able to gain leadership positions or apply for roles with employers that offer higher wages. Plus, your experience could help you gain certification or advance your education.
Certification
There are several certification options for phlebotomists. They might not necessarily be mandated by your employer or your state, but they can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skill in phlebotomy.
A certification can help advance your career and raise your salary. Plus, some certifications allow you to broaden your scope of practice and take on more daily tasks. Adding tasks to your job can also add to your paycheck.
Workplace
Your workplace can also influence your salary. For instance, the BLS reports that phlebotomists who work in outpatient care centers earn a median salary of $42,600 while phlebotomists who work in the offices of physicians earn $36,280. Other places you may find phlebotomists include:
- Medical and diagnostic labs
- Specialty hospitals
- Individual and family services agencies
- Research and development facilities
What’s the Demand for Phlebotomists?
Phlebotomists are in high demand says the BLS. They’re needed to fill roles in medical centers, hospitals, and other healthcare workplaces throughout the country. Of course, demand can vary depending on the healthcare needs of your state. States with large populations such as California and Florida employ large numbers of phlebotomists. Conversely, less populated states such as Wyoming and South Dakota have a lower demand.
States with the Highest Level of Employment
| State | Number of Phlebotomists |
|---|---|
| California | 12,590 |
| Texas | 11,260 |
| Florida | 7,270 |
| Pennsylvania | 6,120 |
| Ohio | 5,920 |
States with the Lowest Level of Employment
| State | Number of Phlebotomists |
|---|---|
| Wyoming | 190 |
| Vermont | 220 |
| Alaska | 240 |
| South Dakota | 380 |
| Maine | 420 |
Phlebotomist Pay vs Similar Healthcare Roles
Phlebotomists earn salaries that are similar to those of other allied health roles that require about the same amount of education and training. On average, you’ll earn about as much in this role as you would as a medical assistant or veterinary technician. Medical lab technicians, who perform specialized diagnostic tests on the lab work collected by phlebotomists, earn slightly higher salaries.
Written and reported by:
Stephanie Behring
Contributing Writer
With professional insight from:
D’Vaughn House
Phlebotomist, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Division of Infectious Diseases