Audioogists play a critical role in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders. With a growing aging population and increasing awareness of hearing health, audiology continues to be a high-demand field. In this guide, we’ll break down audiologist salaries in 2026, including factors that influence income, average salaries by experience, industry trends, and tips for boosting earnings.
🧑⚕️ What Is the Average Audiologist Salary in 2026?
As of 2026, the average audiologist salary in the United States is approximately $89,000 to $103,000 per year. Several sources report variations depending on region, industry, and experience level:
Entry-level Audiologist: $65,000–$75,000 annually
Mid-career Audiologist (5–9 years): $80,000–$95,000
Experienced Audiologist (10+ years): $100,000–$115,000
Senior or Clinical Lead Audiologist: $115,000–$130,000+
📈 Factors That Influence Audiologist Salary
Several key factors can significantly impact an audiologist’s income in 2026:
1. Location
Urban centers like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living.
Rural areas may offer incentives or loan repayment but often lower base salaries.
2. Work Setting
Hospitals: $95,000–$110,000
Private Practice: $85,000–$100,000
ENT Clinics: $90,000–$105,000
Schools/Education: $70,000–$85,000
Teleaudiology/Remote: Variable, often hourly
3. Experience & Title
With time, audiologists can move into leadership, training, or administrative roles which command higher salaries.
4. Certifications & Education
Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) is the standard degree.
Board certifications (e.g., ABA or CCC-A) can boost pay.
Specialized training (e.g., tinnitus management, cochlear implants) increases market value.
5. Additional Income Streams
Supervising students
Owning a practice
Offering telehealth consultations
Public speaking or consulting gigs
💡 What’s the Take-Home Pay for a $103K Audiologist Salary?
With a gross annual salary of $103,000, the take-home pay after taxes and deductions (e.g., federal tax, Social Security, Medicare, and possible state tax) would typically be:
Estimated Monthly Take-Home: $6,200–$6,800
Varies based on state tax rates, benefits, and retirement contributions
🧭 Salary Comparison: Audiologist vs. Similar Careers
| Job Title | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Peloton Instructor | $90,000–$160,000+ |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $85,000–$100,000 |
| Optometrist | $110,000–$130,000 |
| Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano) | $95,000–$125,000 |
| Occupational Therapist | $88,000–$105,000 |
Audiologists remain competitive with allied health professionals, especially with experience and specialization.
📊 Job Market Trends for Audiologists in 2026
Growing demand due to the aging Baby Boomer population and increased noise-induced hearing loss.
Teleaudiology and remote care expanding salary options and flexibility.
Shortage of audiologists in rural and underserved communities creates hiring urgency.
Technology integration (AI hearing aids, remote diagnostics) enhances roles and earnings.
🎓 Education & Certification That Boost Pay
Required:
Doctorate in Audiology (Au.D.)
State Licensure
Highly Recommended:
Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) from ASHA
Board Certification in Audiology (ABA)
Continuing education in tinnitus, vestibular disorders, and cochlear implants
Certifications often raise credibility and salary by 5–15%.
✅ Benefits of Being an Audiologist
Stable career with low unemployment
Flexible settings: hospitals, private practice, remote
Meaningful impact on quality of life
Work-life balance with standard hours
Strong job satisfaction and patient relationships
📌 Final Thoughts
Audiology in 2026 is a promising, stable, and rewarding career with competitive salaries, room for advancement, and growing demand. Whether you’re just entering the field or a seasoned professional, continuing education, certification, and geographic flexibility can significantly impact your earning potential.