Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Hourly Pay in Wilmington, NC: $12.25 (2026)

In terms of part-time and per-diem opportunities, a medical billing and coding specialist who works only 24 hours a week might see significantly different earning potential. While full-time positions might offer stability, those who choose per-diem roles could command higher rates, commonly billing between $25 and $42 per hour. For instance, specialized coders with certifications like CCS can expect hourly wages from $35 to $55, especially in inpatient settings, while those focusing on risk adjustment coding for Medicare Advantage may earn between $40 to $65 per hour. Employers in Wilmington also reflect varied pay structures; coding offices in physician group practices and hospital departments generally provide different pay than third-party vendors. Additionally, while some specialists opt for lower-paying roles that include benefits like health insurance, others prefer higher hourly work without such benefits. When negotiating, it's critical for hourly workers to articulate their value and leverage local market demand, especially in a city like Wilmington, where opportunities continue to evolve with the growing emphasis on remote coding work and advanced specialties.