Phlebotomist Salary 2025: $45,230 Median, Fast Growth Ahead
The median phlebotomist earns $45,230 a year, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $22 an hour. Pay ranges from $35,780 at the 10th percentile to $58,780 at the 90th, so location and experience matter a lot.
There are 143,540 phlebotomists employed nationally. The occupation is projected to grow 5.6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all jobs, creating about 18,400 openings each year. Here's what you need to know about pay, paths, and prospects.
How much Phlebotomists earn
The median annual wage for phlebotomists is $45,230. The mean hourly wage is $21.88. Most phlebotomists earn between $35,780 and $58,780, with the top 10% surpassing that upper bound. Pay varies primarily by setting and geography.
- National median: $45,230
- 10th percentile: $35,780
- 90th percentile: $58,780
- Mean hourly wage: $21.88
Pay by state
The highest-paying state for phlebotomists is California, with an average salary of $56,040. Next are District of Columbia ($51,980), New York ($50,530), Massachusetts ($50,170), and Oregon ($49,160). Lower-paying states include Alabama ($37,220), Mississippi ($36,290), and Louisiana ($36,120). If you're willing to relocate, the difference between the highest and lowest averages exceeds $19,000.
How to become a Phlebotomist
The most common path is completing a phlebotomy training program, which typically takes a few weeks to several months. These are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and some healthcare facilities. After training, passing a certification exam — such as from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) — is required by most employers. Some states have additional licensing requirements.
- Complete a phlebotomy training program (4-8 months typical).
- Earn certification through NHA, ASCP, or similar body.
- Gain clinical experience through externship or entry-level role.
- Maintain certification with continuing education.
Job outlook
Employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow 5.6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 18,400 job openings each year over the decade. Growth is driven by an aging population needing more medical tests and by expanded access to healthcare services.
Frequently asked questions
How much do phlebotomists make an hour?
The mean hourly wage is $21.88. The median annual salary is $45,230.
What state pays phlebotomists the most?
California pays the most, with an average annual salary of $56,040.
Is phlebotomy in high demand?
Yes. The BLS projects 5.6% growth from 2024-2034, faster than average, with about 18,400 openings per year.
What education do you need to become a phlebotomist?
Most positions require a postsecondary nondegree certificate from a phlebotomy program along with professional certification.
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 Phlebotomists data.