Orderlies Salary 2025: $38,290 Median, $50,600 Top Earners
Orderlies earn a median salary of $38,290 per year, according to the latest BLS data. The average hourly wage is about $18, with 10th percentile earners making $32,240 and top earners reaching $50,600. These figures are for 2025 and reflect the national pay scale for this occupation.
How much Orderlies earn
The median salary for Orderlies is $38,290, with a mean annual wage of $40,660. That works out to roughly $18 per hour. Pay varies by experience, industry, and location. The lowest 10% of earners make $32,240 or less, while the highest 10% earn $50,600 or more.
- National median: $38,290
- Mean wage: $40,660 (~$18/hr)
- Typical range: $32,240 to $50,600
Pay by state
Where you work has a big impact on your paycheck. California pays the most, with a mean annual wage of $49,920, followed by Washington ($48,690), Vermont ($48,120), Hawaii ($47,130), and New York ($46,600). On the lower end, Alabama averages $31,310, Mississippi $29,790, and Louisiana $27,330. Note that state averages mask local variation within each state.
How to become an Orderly
The path to becoming an Orderly is shorter than many healthcare roles. Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, though some employers prefer or require a state-approved nursing assistant certification (CNA) which can be completed in 4-12 weeks. No college degree is necessary. Key steps include earning a high school diploma, completing a CNA program (optional but helpful), and obtaining CPR certification. Many Orderlies start as nursing assistants or patient transporters.
- High school diploma or GED
- Optional: Complete a CNA training program (4-12 weeks)
- Pass a background check
- Get CPR/BLS certification
- Start with on-the-job training
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for Orderlies will grow 3.3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 7,800 openings per year over the decade, most of which stem from workers leaving the occupation or retiring. Current employment stands at 52,440. Demand will be driven by an aging population needing hospital and long-term care.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for Orderlies?
California pays the most, with a mean annual wage of $49,920. Washington ($48,690), Vermont ($48,120), Hawaii ($47,130), and New York ($46,600) round out the top five.
Do I need a degree to become an Orderly?
No, you don't need a college degree. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. Completing a state-approved nursing assistant (CNA) program (4-12 weeks) can help you get hired.
What is the job growth for Orderlies?
The BLS projects 3.3% employment growth from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Expect about 7,800 job openings each year.
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 Orderlies data.