verified BLS-Verified Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2025 release

Phlebotomist Salary

Median Annual Salary
$45,230/yr
Median Hourly Wage
$21.75/hr

Salary Distribution (10th to 90th Percentile)

trending_up 10-Yr Growth
+8% Faster than average
school Entry Education
Postsecondary certificate
work Total Jobs (U.S.)
143,540

Estimated Pay by Experience Level

Entry-Level (10th Pct)
$35,780
$17.20/hr
Median
Mid-Level (50th Pct)
$45,230
$21.75/hr
Senior-Level (90th Pct)
$58,780
$28.26/hr

Salary by State

Median annual
StateMedian / yrRelative pay
California $56,040
District of Columbia $51,980
New York $50,530
Massachusetts $50,170
Oregon $49,160
Washington $48,880
New Hampshire $48,660
New Jersey $48,650
National Median $45,230

View all 51 states arrow_forward

The highest sticker pay isn't always where phlebotomists keep the most. See Phlebotomist pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.

How to Become a Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for tests, donations, transfusions, and research.

1

Meet the education requirement

Most phlebotomists enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.

2

Complete an accredited training program

Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.

3

Earn the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $35,780 and rises toward $58,780 with experience.

Phlebotomist salary: common questions

How much does a Phlebotomist make an hour?

The median hourly wage for phlebotomists is $21.75, which works out to about $45,230 per year for full-time work.

Which state pays phlebotomists the most?

California has the highest median pay for phlebotomists at $56,040 per year — 24% above the national median of $45,230.

What is the salary range for phlebotomists?

Most phlebotomists earn between $35,780 and $58,780 per year. The middle 50% earn $38,190 to $48,930, with a median of $45,230.

Is becoming a Phlebotomist a good career?

Employment is projected to grow 8% (faster than average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $45,230 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.

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