In short
Medical coders review patient records and assign standard diagnosis and procedure codes; BLS counts them as medical records specialists, with a May 2025 median of $51,140. Medical billers submit claims, chase denials and work with patients on balances; BLS groups them with billing and posting clerks, at $48,500. Coding usually requires more training.
| Side by side | Medical coder | Medical biller |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay (May 2025) | $51,140 | $48,500 |
| Hourly equivalent | $24.59 | $23.32 |
| Typical way in | Certificate | High school or GED |
| On-the-job training | None listed | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Jobs in the U.S. (2025) | 200,700 | 418,000 |
| Growth, 2025 to 2035 | 7.8% | a decline of 0.1% |
| Openings each year | 14,000 | 37,000 |
Source: BLS Employment Projections 2025 to 2035, national medians. Not a promise of what you will earn.
Day to day
Coders spend most of the day reading charts and choosing codes, often alone. Billers spend more time on the phone with insurers and patients and juggle deadlines and appeals.
Which to train for
Coding usually pays more and certifications like the CPC open doors. Billing is easier to enter and suits people who like solving problems by phone. Many programs cover both, which gives you options.
Questions people ask
Is billing or coding easier?
Billing is usually easier to start; coding requires more detailed knowledge.
Can I do both?
Yes, especially in small practices.
Which works remote more often?
Experienced coders frequently work remotely; billers sometimes do too.