Data Entry Clerks input information into computer systems accurately and efficiently, maintaining the databases that organizations rely on for operations and decisions. They verify data for accuracy and completeness while meeting productivity standards. The role requires sustained focus and attention to detail over extended periods. Data Entry Clerks often work with confidential information requiring discretion.
The national median salary for a Data Entry Clerk in 2026 is $36,000, with compensation typically ranging from $30,000 at the entry level to $45,000 for senior professionals.
Pure data entry roles continue to decline in 2026 as OCR, AI extraction, and automated data capture reduce manual input needs. However, specialized data entry positions — medical records, legal document processing, and financial data verification — remain steady.
Medical data entry and insurance claims processing positions pay the most because they require accuracy, HIPAA compliance, and familiarity with coding systems.
Most Data Entry Clerk positions require 0-2 years of experience. This makes it an accessible role for early-career professionals, though candidates with internship experience or relevant certifications often start at the higher end of the entry-level range.
Geography plays a significant role in Data Entry Clerk compensation. The highest-paying market is Manhattan, NY, where the median reaches $52,200. On the lower end, Jackson, MS comes in at $29,520. These differences reflect local cost of living, regional industry concentration, and competitive dynamics in each market. Explore our staffing locations to learn more about the hiring landscape in specific cities. Remote roles may benchmark somewhere between these figures depending on the employer's compensation philosophy.
Several factors can push Data Entry Clerk salaries above the median. Industry specialization, advanced certifications, and demonstrated leadership experience consistently command premium compensation. Professionals who can point to specific outcomes they've driven — whether that's revenue growth, cost reduction, process improvement, or team development — have the strongest negotiating position. Geographic flexibility and willingness to work in high-cost markets can also increase earning potential. For more tips on positioning yourself for top-of-market offers, explore our career resources.
Demand for Data Entry Clerk professionals remains strong going into 2026. Employers report that finding qualified candidates is one of their top hiring challenges in the administrative space. For job seekers, this means competitive offers, faster hiring timelines, and increased leverage during salary negotiations. For employers, it means staying current on market rates and moving quickly when strong candidates are available.
Salary figures are based on Careerscape placement data and market surveys. For additional occupational statistics, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
How Data Entry Clerk pay varies across major U.S. markets.
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