Richmond vs Sterling: Medical Coder Salary (2026)
Compare medical coder salaries between Richmond, VA and Sterling, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, VA | Sterling, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,049▲ | $37,483 |
| Hourly Rate | $20.22▲ | $18.02 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $31,449▲ | $28,816 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,276▲ | $31,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $51,651▲ | $47,066 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $62,292▲ | $57,877 |
| Total Employed | 740▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for medical coders, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sterling.
The salary gap between Richmond and Sterling is $4,566 (12.18%). Richmond's median is +0.45% compared to the US national median of $41,861.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richmond spans $30,843,Sterling spans $29,061. Richmond 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, Richmond ($42,969 effective) pays 18.31% more than Sterling ($36,321 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($42,049/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($62,292)
- ✓Larger job market (740 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $42,969)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Sterling if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical coder salaries in Richmond grew -12.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -28.9% growth in Sterling over the same period.
Richmond, VA
$46,910 (2021) → $41,096 (2025)
Sterling, VA
$51,490 (2024) → $36,633 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, VA
Sterling, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical coders more: Richmond or Sterling?
What is the hourly rate difference between Richmond and Sterling?
Should I relocate from Richmond to Sterling as a medical coder?
What do entry-level medical coders earn in Richmond vs Sterling?
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