Topeka vs Wichita: Medical Coder Salary (2026)
Compare medical coder salaries between Topeka, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Topeka, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,135▲ | $38,530 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.58▲ | $18.52 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,576▲ | $30,590 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,864▲ | $32,742 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,756▲ | $42,753 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,564▲ | $51,348 |
| Total Employed | 310 | 490▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for medical coders, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wichita.
The salary gap between Topeka and Wichita is $12,605 (32.71%). Topeka's median is +22.15% compared to the US national median of $41,861.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Topeka spans $50,988,Wichita spans $20,758. Topeka 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, Topeka ($57,571 effective) pays 32.90% more than Wichita ($43,318 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($51,135/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,564)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $57,571)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical coder salaries in Topeka grew 7.1% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -14.2% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Topeka, KS
$46,660 (2021) → $49,976 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$43,890 (2021) → $37,656 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Topeka, KS
Wichita, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical coders more: Topeka or Wichita?
What is the hourly rate difference between Topeka and Wichita?
Should I relocate from Topeka to Wichita as a medical coder?
What do entry-level medical coders earn in Topeka vs Wichita?
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