Data Entry Salary in USA 2025
Remote opportunities and career advancement paths
Data Entry Annual Salary Range
How Much Do Data Entry Workers Earn in 2025?
Data entry workers are administrative professionals who input, update, and maintain information in computer systems and databases. The role requires attention to detail, typing speed, and accuracy.
2025 data entry salaries are modest but accessible: typically $30,000–$45,000 annually ($14–$22/hour), with remote positions offering flexibility and specialized data entry roles paying up to $50,000–$60,000.
Data entry is one of the most remote-friendly entry-level positions, with many companies offering work-from-home opportunities. While compensation is modest, data entry roles provide valuable experience that can lead to higher-paying positions in data analysis, administration, or specialized fields. For context, see the average salary in the US and remote job salary guide.
Data Entry Salary: Hourly Rates and Annual Income
Comprehensive compensation breakdown:
| Position Type | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Data Entry | $14–$18 | $29,000–$37,500 |
| Standard Data Entry | $18–$22 | $37,500–$45,800 |
| Specialized/Technical | $22–$30 | $45,800–$62,400 |
| Medical Data Entry | N/A | $40,000–$55,000 |
| Legal Data Entry | N/A | $38,000–$52,000 |
| Financial Data Entry | N/A | $42,000–$58,000 |
Hourly Rates
Entry-level: $14–$18/hour
Experienced: $18–$22/hour
Specialized/Technical: $22–$30/hour
Annual Salary Calculations
Entry-level ($16/hour × 40 hrs × 52 weeks): ~$33,280/year
Mid-level ($20/hour × 40 hrs × 52 weeks): ~$41,600/year
Experienced ($24/hour × 40 hrs × 52 weeks): ~$49,920/year
Specialized Data Entry Roles
Medical data entry: $40,000–$55,000/year (requires medical terminology knowledge)
Legal data entry: $38,000–$52,000/year (requires legal vocabulary)
Financial data entry: $42,000–$58,000/year (requires accounting knowledge)
Key Factors Affecting Pay
Typing speed: Workers with 60+ WPM earn more than those at 40 WPM
Accuracy: Error rates below 1% command premium rates
Specialized knowledge: Medical, legal, financial expertise increases value
Software proficiency: Excel, database systems, CRM platforms add value
Use our hourly to annual salary calculator to convert rates.
Remote Data Entry Opportunities and Salary
Remote Data Entry Reality Check
High competition: Remote data entry is extremely competitive with many applicants per position
Scam warning: Many "data entry jobs" are scams; legitimate opportunities exist but require careful vetting
Geographic arbitrage: Companies may pay based on worker location or offer flat rates
Legitimate Remote Data Entry Sources
Major companies: Amazon, Apple, CVS Health occasionally hire remote data entry
Staffing agencies: Robert Half, Kelly Services, Randstad place remote data workers
Freelance platforms: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com (project-based)
Specialized services: Rev.com (transcription), Clickworker, Lionbridge
Remote Pay Structure
Hourly positions: $15–$22/hour (similar to in-office)
Per-project: Highly variable ($10–$100+ per project depending on complexity)
Part-time remote: $12–$18/hour (fewer hours, more flexibility)
| Factor | Remote Data Entry | In-Office Data Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $15–$22 | $16–$24 (slightly higher) |
| Benefits | Often contract (none) | Usually full-time (healthcare, PTO) |
| Competition | Extremely high | Moderate |
| Flexibility | High | Low (fixed schedule) |
| Commute Savings | $3K–$5K/year | None |
Requirements for Remote Data Entry
Reliable internet connection, quiet workspace, own equipment (computer, sometimes dual monitors), typing speed typically 40+ WPM minimum (60+ WPM preferred), and Microsoft Office/Google Workspace proficiency.
Career Advancement from Data Entry
Data entry serves as a stepping stone to higher-paying positions:
| Career Stage | Position | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Starting | Data Entry Clerk | $30K–$45K |
| Advancement | Senior Data Entry | $38K–$48K |
| Transition | Data Analyst (entry) | $55K–$75K |
| Growth | Data Analyst (experienced) | $65K–$95K |
| Advanced | Data Scientist | $85K–$130K |
Immediate Advancement (1–2 years)
Senior Data Entry Specialist: $38,000–$48,000 (+$5K–$8K)
Data Entry Supervisor: $42,000–$55,000 (team leadership)
Adjacent Career Transitions (2–4 years)
Data Analyst ($55,000–$75,000): Learn Excel (pivot tables, formulas), SQL basics, data visualization. Strong career path with significant salary increase.
Administrative Assistant ($38,000–$52,000): Develop office management, communication, scheduling skills.
Database Administrator ($60,000–$90,000): Learn database systems (SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL). Requires technical training.
Skills to Develop for Advancement
Technical: Excel (advanced), SQL, Python, data visualization (Tableau, Power BI)
Analytical: Data analysis, statistical thinking, problem-solving
Soft skills: Communication, attention to detail, time management
What Data Entry Workers Do: Role and Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities
Typing data from source documents into computer systems, verifying accuracy of entered data, updating database information, maintaining organized records, meeting productivity quotas, and correcting errors.
Work Environments
Office settings, remote/home offices, call centers, medical facilities, legal firms, and financial institutions.
Essential Tools
Microsoft Excel, database software, CRM systems, scanning equipment, typing software, and specialized industry programs.
Skills Required
Fast and accurate typing (40–60+ WPM), attention to detail, basic computer literacy, time management, and confidentiality.
Job Outlook and Opportunities
Declining Outlook
BLS projects decline in data entry positions as automation and AI reduce manual data entry needs. Simple data entry is being replaced by OCR, AI, and RPA (Robotic Process Automation).
Shifting Opportunities
Traditional data entry declining, but specialized roles (medical, legal, financial) remain stable. Remote work growth is removing geographic boundaries but increasing global competition.
Career Strategy
Use data entry as a stepping stone, not a long-term career goal. Develop skills for advancement while working in data entry.
How to Increase Your Data Entry Income
Increase Typing Speed
60+ WPM workers earn $3–$5/hour more than 40 WPM.
Develop Specialized Knowledge
Medical, legal, financial data entry pays $40K–$58K versus $30K–$45K general.
Learn Software Tools
Excel mastery, database systems, and CRM platforms increase value.
Pursue Certifications
Medical coding, legal secretary, and bookkeeping certifications open higher-paying roles.
Transition to Data Analyst
Entry-level data analysts earn $55K–$75K—a $10K–$30K increase over data entry.
Take Supervisory Role
Data entry supervisors earn $42K–$55K.
Freelance for Higher Rates
Build client base for $20–$30/hour contract work.
See our salary negotiation guide for strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average data entry salary in 2025?
Data entry workers earn $30,000–$45,000 annually ($14–$22/hour). Entry-level earns $29,000–$37,500, experienced workers $37,500–$45,800, and specialized roles (medical, legal, financial) $38,000–$58,000.
How much do remote data entry workers earn?
Remote data entry positions pay $15–$22/hour, similar to in-office roles. Part-time remote positions may pay $12–$18/hour. Remote workers save $3,000–$5,000 annually on commuting costs.
Can you make a living doing data entry?
Basic data entry ($30K–$45K) provides modest income. Specialized data entry (medical, legal, financial) at $40K–$58K offers more comfortable living. Best strategy is using data entry as stepping stone to higher-paying roles like data analyst ($55K–$75K).
What typing speed is required for data entry?
Minimum typically 40 WPM, with 60+ WPM preferred. Faster typists (60+ WPM) earn $3–$5/hour more than slower typists. Accuracy is equally important—error rates below 1% command premium rates.
Is data entry a good career choice?
As a starting point, yes. Data entry offers accessible entry with no degree required, remote flexibility, and valuable experience. As a long-term career, challenging due to automation and limited growth. Best approach: use data entry to develop skills and advance to data analyst or administrative roles.
How can I advance from a data entry position?
Learn Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables), SQL basics, and data visualization tools. Consider certifications in your industry (medical coding, bookkeeping). Target data analyst roles ($55K–$75K) or administrative positions ($38K–$52K) after 2–4 years.