Data Entry Keyers Salary Guide 2025: $41,340 Median, -26% Job Decline
The median salary for Data Entry Keyers is $41,340 per year, or roughly $20 an hour. That figure comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest data. The typical range runs from $31,200 at the 10th percentile to $58,790 at the 90th. But pay varies widely by location and industry, and the job market is shrinking fast.
How much Data Entry Keyers earn
The national mean wage for Data Entry Keyers is $43,310, but half of workers earn less than the median of $41,340. Entry-level positions often start near $31,200, while experienced keyers in top roles can reach $58,790.
Industries with the highest pay include professional services and government, where mean wages exceed $48,000. Remote data entry positions may offer similar pay, though BLS data does not break out remote wages separately.
Pay by state
District of Columbia tops the list for Data Entry Keyers at $55,170 mean annual wage. New Mexico ($49,810), North Dakota ($48,300), Maine ($48,190), and Hawaii ($47,630) round out the top five. On the low end, Mississippi ($34,540), South Dakota ($34,320), and Arkansas ($33,860) pay the least. Cost of living partially explains the differences, but not entirely — North Dakota's high pay is a standout for a lower-cost area.
How to become Data Entry Keyer
Most Data Entry Keyers need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers provide on-the-job training lasting a few weeks. Typing speed and accuracy are critical skills; proficiency in spreadsheets and database software helps. Some community colleges offer data entry certificates, though not required.
- High school diploma or GED is the typical minimum education.
- On-the-job training usually lasts 1–3 months.
- Key skills: fast, accurate typing (60+ wpm), basic Microsoft Office, attention to detail.
- Optional: certificate in data entry or office administration may boost hiring chances.
Job outlook
Employment for Data Entry Keyers is projected to decline 25.9% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average occupation. The BLS expects about 9,500 openings each year, mostly to replace workers leaving the field. Automation and optical character recognition (OCR) are reducing demand. Those with additional skills — like data analysis or database management — may have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Data Entry Keyers in 2025?
The national median salary is $41,340 per year. The mean is $43,310, with a typical range from $31,200 to $58,790.
Is the Data Entry Keyer job growing or declining?
Declining. The BLS projects a -25.9% drop in employment from 2024 to 2034, with about 9,500 openings per year, mostly due to turnover.
What education do you need to be a Data Entry Keyer?
A high school diploma is usually required. On-the-job training is common, and typing speed is the main qualification.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Data Entry Keyers data.