Entry-Level Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Salary in Merced, CA: $26,919 (2026)

Employers in Merced that hire entry-level medical billing and coding specialists primarily include physician group practices, outpatient surgery centers, and third-party coding companies, many of which offer mentorship for those holding a CPC-A (apprentice) credential. For higher-paying roles, achieving certifications such as AHIMA's CCS (for inpatient coding) or CPC from AAPC can significantly boost starting salaries. As remote work becomes increasingly standard—accounting for approximately 80% of coding jobs—new professionals are encouraged to stay current with ICD-10-CM and CPT updates. With trends indicating that risk adjustment and HCC coding, especially within Medicare Advantage plans, are the fastest-growing subspecialties, focusing on these areas during the first few years can lead to a substantial increase in wages over time. As new coders hone their skills and expand their expertise through continuing education, they may anticipate salary growth that surpasses what is typically experienced in the early stages of their careers.