If you’re exploring a healthcare career that combines organization, communication, and patient support, the patient care coordinator role is a strong option. One of the most common questions is: What’s the typical patient care coordinator salary? The answer depends on several factors like location, education, and experience, but overall, the role offers competitive pay and long-term stability in the healthcare industry.
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What Is a Patient Care Coordinator?
A patient care coordinator is responsible for managing and organizing all aspects of a patient’s care plan. They help patients understand treatments, schedule appointments, and ensure communication flows smoothly between the patient, family, and medical team.
Average Patient Care Coordinator Salary
The average patient care coordinator salary in the U.S. ranges between $47,000 and $65,000 per year. Entry-level positions tend to be on the lower end, while experienced professionals can earn significantly more.
Hourly Pay for Patient Care Coordinators
Most patient care coordinators are paid by the hour. The national average hourly rate falls between $20 and $30, depending on your level of experience, education, and where you work.
States With the Highest Pay
Certain states consistently offer better compensation for this position due to the cost of living, demand, and size of the healthcare network. These states include:
California
New York
Maryland
Vermont
Indiana
Working in these locations often results in higher average pay and better job benefits.
Best Cities for Patient Care Coordinator Salaries
If you’re open to relocating or looking to work in top-paying cities, consider these locations:
San Francisco, CA
New York, NY
Baltimore, MD
Indianapolis, IN
Burlington, VT
San Francisco, CA, boasts the highest salaries for nurse care coordinators at $83.83 per hour, or $174,370 per year, making it a prime location for healthcare professionals seeking top compensation.
These cities offer higher wages but may also have a higher cost of living.
Entry-Level vs. Experienced Salary Comparison
Years of experience directly influence your salary. Here’s how average pay typically grows over time:
0–2 years: $38,000–$45,000
3–5 years: $46,000–$55,000
6+ years: $56,000–$72,000
For comparison, the average annual salary for nurse care coordinators is $94,480, reflecting the earning potential in advanced care coordination roles.
Building long-term experience leads to more responsibility and better pay in most healthcare systems.
Education Requirements and Pay Impact
While a high school diploma may qualify you for some entry-level jobs, many employers prefer:
Associate degrees for administrative roles
Bachelor’s degrees for mid-level care coordination
Master’s degrees for roles in care management or healthcare leadership
Higher education typically results in higher salaries and access to leadership positions.
Core Skills That Improve Earning Potential
To qualify for better-paying roles or promotions, focus on these key skills:
Medical terminology proficiency
Insurance verification knowledge
Electronic Health Record (EHR) management
Strong communication and patient service
Medical coding and billing familiarity
Specializing in any of these areas can make you more valuable and boost your salary.
Related Healthcare Roles and Salary Comparison
When comparing this position to similar healthcare support roles, here’s how it stacks up:
Patient care coordinators typically earn more than medical receptionists or entry-level medical assistants
They earn less than registered nurses or clinical managers
With the right experience and skills, coordinators can move into higher-paying positions like case managers or clinical supervisors
In the U.S., nurse care coordinators make an average of $45.42 per hour, highlighting the potential for higher earnings in related roles.
Job Responsibilities That Justify the Salary
Patient care coordinators handle a wide range of essential tasks, including:
Coordinating appointments and follow-ups
Updating and managing electronic medical records
Communicating care plans between providers and patients
Verifying insurance details and pre-authorization
Tracking progress of ongoing treatment plans
Assisting with referrals and care transitions
These responsibilities contribute directly to better patient outcomes, which is why the role is well-compensated.
Career Advancement Opportunities
This job can be a stepping stone to even higher-paying roles. Some of the potential career paths include:
Care Manager
Case Management Supervisor
Health Services Manager
Director of Patient Experience
These positions require more experience but offer significantly higher salaries.
How to Earn a Higher Salary in This Role
If you’re looking for ways to increase your pay as a patient care coordinator, here are practical steps to consider:
Obtain certifications (e.g., Certified Patient Care Coordinator)
Specialize in high-demand areas like chronic care or geriatric care
Move to high-paying cities or states
Apply to hospitals or large health systems with robust benefit packages
Gain additional skills in data reporting, medical coding, or leadership
Taking action to develop new capabilities can directly lead to salary increases.
Patient Care Coordinator Salary in California
California remains the top-paying state, with some of the highest city-specific salaries in the country. In San Francisco, experienced coordinators can earn more than $70,000 per year, making it one of the best markets to pursue this role. Additionally, California offers the highest pay for all registered nurses at $66.20 per hour, further emphasizing the state’s lucrative opportunities in healthcare.
Industry Demand and Job Security
As the healthcare system expands and patient needs grow more complex, the demand for patient care coordinators is increasing. Healthcare providers value these professionals for helping improve patient experiences and reduce readmissions.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects continued growth in healthcare support roles, making this a secure career choice.
What Makes This Job Worth It?
Many coordinators report high job satisfaction due to:
Opportunities for professional growth
Consistent pay increases with experience
Daily human interaction and teamwork
Making a difference in patient care
The balance between administrative work and patient interaction makes the role uniquely rewarding.
How Location and Facility Type Affect Salary
Besides state and city, the type of healthcare facility you work in also influences salary. Here’s how:
Hospitals and health systems usually offer higher pay and better benefits
Private clinics may offer more flexibility but lower salaries
Specialty care providers often pay more due to complex case management
The highest average annual salaries for nurse care coordinators are found in outpatient care centers, averaging $102,640.
Hospitals and health systems usually offer higher pay and better benefits
Private clinics may offer more flexibility but lower salaries
Specialty care providers often pay more due to complex case management
Choosing the right employer type is key to maximizing your income.
Benefits and Perks Beyond Salary
A career as a patient care coordinator offers much more than just a steady paycheck. In addition to competitive salaries—especially in high-paying cities like San Francisco and New York—many employers provide generous benefits packages. These often include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, which collectively enhance job satisfaction and financial stability. Flexible schedules, telecommuting options, and access to advanced tools further support work-life balance and productivity.
Education and career advancement are also supported in this field. Many healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement or certification support, helping professionals grow into leadership roles. Earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree or completing specialized certifications in care coordination can boost your qualifications and lead to higher salaries. These growth opportunities are particularly attractive in regions where demand for healthcare workers is strong, such as Maryland, Indiana, and Vermont.
Is This Career Path Right for You?
If you enjoy coordinating, problem-solving, and working with both patients and healthcare teams, this role is a great match. It’s especially ideal for those interested in healthcare management, patient advocacy, or nursing pathways.
Actionable Steps to Get Started
Ready to become a patient care coordinator? Here’s what to do next:
Enroll in a healthcare administration or patient coordination program
Build your resume with internships or entry-level healthcare roles
Apply to job openings in cities with high demand
Pursue certifications that enhance your credibility and salary potential
Before proceeding with online job applications or submitting personal information, always ensure you have a secure connection to protect your data.
Taking these steps can help you start strong and grow into a rewarding career.
