Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Hourly Pay in Lowell, MA: $16.71 (2026)

Part-time medical billing and coding specialists working three days a week and putting in around 24 hours may take home an income reflective of approximately $31,441 annually, considerably less than a full-time (40-hour workweek) income. Per-diem professionals and those on a 1099 basis sometimes see rates starting between $25 and $42 per hour, with inpatient coders often commanding $35 to $55 per hour, especially in specialized roles like risk adjustment coding for Medicare Advantage plans, where rates can reach up to $65 per hour. In Lowell, rates can vary by employer type—physician group practices may have lower hourly rates compared to third-party remote coding firms. Considering the trade-offs of lower hourly pay for stable health insurance benefits versus higher per-hour rates with no benefits is crucial for many specialists. Negotiating pay in Lowell should focus on emphasizing relevant certifications like CPC or CCS, showcasing updated knowledge of ICD-10-CM and CPT coding, and understanding the demand for HCC coding expertise, as many employers recognize these factors in their compensation decisions.