New Haven vs Waterbury: Medical Coder Salary (2026)
Compare medical coder salaries between New Haven, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Haven, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $55,081▲ | $46,781 |
| Hourly Rate | $26.48▲ | $22.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,957▲ | $31,719 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,460▲ | $38,742 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,138▲ | $50,513 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,029▲ | $63,283 |
| Total Employed | 220▲ | 90 |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for medical coders, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterbury.
The salary gap between New Haven and Waterbury is $8,300 (17.74%). New Haven's median is +31.58% compared to the US national median of $41,861.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Haven spans $49,072,Waterbury spans $31,564. New Haven has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, New Haven ($52,679 effective) pays 12.36% more than Waterbury ($46,885 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($55,081/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($87,029)
- ✓Larger job market (220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $52,679)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Waterbury if…
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical coder salaries in New Haven grew -3.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -22.3% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
New Haven, CT
$56,010 (2021) → $53,832 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$58,810 (2021) → $45,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Haven, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical coders more: New Haven or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Haven and Waterbury?
Should I relocate from New Haven to Waterbury as a medical coder?
What do entry-level medical coders earn in New Haven vs Waterbury?
Written by Aisha Patel, RHIT, CPC
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in medical coding. She specializes in inpatient coding at acute care facilities. Aisha works closely with healthcare providers to ensure accurate coding practices.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.32% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, RHIT, CPC, a licensed medical coder with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov