The profession of a coroner remains a critical part of the justice and public health system. As we progress into 2025, the salary landscape for coroners is evolving with changing job demands, regional needs, and educational requirements. This article explores the average coroner salary in 2025, salary influencers, job outlook, required certifications, and more—delivering a comprehensive view for anyone considering or already in the profession.
Average Coroner Salary in 2025
As of 2025, the average annual salary for a coroner in the United States is estimated to be $70,000 to $103,000, depending on region, experience, and additional responsibilities. In some high-demand urban areas or states with higher cost of living, coroners can earn up to $120,000 or more annually.
Take-Home Pay for a $103K Salary
For a coroner earning $103,000 per year, after federal and state taxes, insurance, and retirement contributions, the take-home pay is typically around $70,000 to $75,000 annually, or approximately $5,800 to $6,200 per month, depending on tax status and deductions.
Factors Influencing Coroner Salary
Several key factors influence how much a coroner earns:
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Location: States like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to offer higher salaries.
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Experience Level: Entry-level coroners earn less than seasoned professionals.
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Education: Those with medical degrees, such as forensic pathologists, often earn significantly more.
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Certifications: Additional certifications (e.g., American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators – ABMDI) can increase salary.
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Job Complexity: Working in high-crime or high-population areas often correlates with higher compensation.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| Senior-Level (8+ years) | $90,000 – $120,000+ |
Experienced coroners who take on leadership roles or oversee teams may earn even more.
Job Outlook and Market Trends in 2025
The job market for coroners in 2025 is stable and growing moderately. With increased awareness of forensic science and legal investigations, counties and cities are investing in more qualified coroners and medical examiners.
Key Trends:
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Technological Integration: Use of forensic software and AI in case investigations is rising.
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Increased Demand: Particularly in rural areas where there’s a shortage of qualified personnel.
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Public Health Collaboration: COVID-era public health reforms continue to impact how coroners work, integrating more closely with epidemiological agencies.
Benefits and Perks
Working as a coroner offers more than just salary. Typical benefits include:
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Health and Dental Insurance
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Retirement Plans (Pension or 401(k))
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Paid Time Off and Holidays
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Continuing Education Reimbursements
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Job Security (especially in public sector roles)
Required Education and Certifications
Educational Requirements:
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A bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., biology, criminal justice, forensic science).
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Some roles may require a medical degree (especially if the coroner is also the medical examiner).
Certifications:
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ABMDI Certification for medicolegal death investigators.
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State-specific Licensure or Training, especially in counties requiring forensic pathology qualifications.
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Continuing education to stay updated on forensic laws and technology.
Final Thoughts
A coroner’s salary in 2025 reflects both the complexity and importance of the role. With opportunities for career growth, strong benefits, and job security, the profession offers both financial and professional rewards. For those interested in a meaningful career intersecting science, law, and public service, becoming a coroner remains a compelling option.
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