How to Become a Medical Biller & Coder in Long Beach, CA: Education Requirements & Certification for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Despite the rising demand for healthcare support roles like medical billers and coders, many jobseekers in Long Beach, CA remain unaware of how to enter this growing field—or assume the path is too complicated or costly. With California projecting 8% job growth in the next decade and local salaries averaging $45,000 to $55,000, the opportunity is real—but often overlooked.

This guide, prepared by career planning experts, demystifies the process and offers practical steps to help you pursue a stable healthcare career in Long Beach, even without a clinical background.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Medical Biller & Coder in Long Beach, CA

• Medical coders in Long Beach earn an average of $62,010 annually ($30/hour), while entry-level coders typically start around $49,000 per year—both above the national average of $53,690.
• Over 300 medical coding roles and 1,200 combined billing and coding positions are currently listed in Long Beach, making it a regional employment hub for healthcare support careers.
• Training costs range from $1,995 for an 11-week online certificate to $34,667 for a 14-month associate degree, depending on program depth and credentials.

Table of Contents

1. What education is needed to become a medical biller and coder in Long Beach, CA?
2. How do I get certified as a medical biller and coder in Long Beach, CA?
3. How much do medical billers and coders make in Long Beach, CA?
4. What medical billing and coding specialties pay the most in Long Beach, CA?
5. Is there a high demand for medical billers and coders in Long Beach, CA?
6. How long does it take to become certified in medical billing and coding in Long Beach, CA?
7. What’s the average cost of a medical billing and coding program in Long Beach, CA?
8. How Can Advanced Certifications Elevate Your Healthcare Career?
9. What does a medical biller and coder in Long Beach, CA do on a daily basis?
10. What are the most in-demand tech skills for medical billers and coders in Long Beach, CA?
11. Can medical billers and coders work from home in Long Beach, CA?
12. Can My Billing and Coding Experience Expand My Healthcare Career Options?
13. What Other Complementary Certifications Can Enhance My Healthcare Career in Long Beach, CA?
14. Other Things You Should Know about Becoming a Medical Biller & Coder in Long Beach, CA

What education is needed to become a medical biller and coder in Long Beach, CA?

To become a medical biller or coder, the first step is earning a high school diploma or GED—this is required by most training programs and employers. From there, students typically choose between a certificate or associate degree program to gain the necessary skills.

Certificate programs can be completed in under a year and focus on essential billing and coding topics. They prepare students for certifications like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS). Associate degree programs take about two years and include both technical and general education courses, which some employers prefer.

Common coursework includes medical terminology, anatomy, ICD-10 and CPT coding, claims processing, insurance reimbursement, HIPAA regulations, and billing software. These programs are designed to build both practical and technical expertise.

In Long Beach, students have access to strong local programs. Long Beach City College offers a Medical Insurance Billing Certificate with a focus on California-specific practices. Cal State Long Beach Extension provides flexible online and in-person certificate options. North-West College offers a hands-on diploma program in billing and coding.

To succeed, students should stay engaged, practice coding regularly, and seek out internships or externships. Joining professional groups like CHIA or the AAPC can help with networking and career growth. Campus resources like LBCC’s career center and library also support student success.

How do I get certified as a medical biller and coder in Long Beach, CA?

Aspiring medical billers and coders typically start by completing a post-secondary training program that builds core skills in billing, coding, and healthcare administration. While California does not legally require certification, most employers strongly prefer candidates with recognized credentials, which can improve job prospects and earning potential.

Students can prepare for certification through accredited in-person or online programs. Local schools like Long Beach City College and CSU Dominguez Hills offer certificates focused on insurance claims processing and coding systems such as CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS. Certifications from national organizations like the AAPC—such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Professional Biller (CPB)—are highly respected and often required for employment.

Although California doesn’t mandate clinical hours, hands-on experience through externships or on-the-job training is highly encouraged. Many training programs include this practical component, and completing an 80-hour course can count toward CPC exam eligibility in place of one year of work experience.

How much do medical billers and coders make in Long Beach, CA?

Professionals currently earn competitive wages that exceed the national averages. The average annual salary for a medical coder in Long Beach is about $62,010, which breaks down to roughly $30 per hour, $1,193 per week, or $5,168 per month. This is notably higher than the national mean annual salary of $53,690 reported for medical coders and billers as of May 2023.

For medical billers specifically, the average hourly wage in Long Beach is approximately $22.56. Entry-level medical coders in this area usually start around $23.58 per hour, equating to an annual income near $49,000 when working full-time. This entry-level figure provides a reasonable starting point for those newly entering the profession but remains below the regional average.

Experienced medical coders, especially those working remotely or holding specialty certifications, can earn significantly more, with average salaries rising to about $64,499 annually. Total compensation packages for top earners in Long Beach may reach up to $73,437 per year. 

In comparison to the broader Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area, where the mean salary is approximately $60,530 with an hourly mean wage of $29.10, Long Beach remains competitive within the regional labor market. However, other California cities such as San Jose and San Francisco typically offer higher wages, reflecting local economic conditions and cost of living differences.

What medical billing and coding specialties pay the most in Long Beach, CA?

Several medical billing and coding specialties in Long Beach offer above-average salaries, especially for professionals with advanced training and certifications. The highest-paying roles are typically found in settings that require complex documentation, deep coding knowledge, and regulatory expertise. 

• Inpatient Hospital Coding: This specialty involves coding records for hospital stays longer than 24 hours, using ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS codes. Inpatient coders often work in acute care hospitals and must accurately document complex cases to ensure proper reimbursement. In Long Beach, experienced inpatient coders can earn between $35 and $40 per hour.
• Outpatient/Ambulatory Coding: Outpatient coders handle same-day procedures, emergency visits, and clinic appointments. They apply CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10 codes and must be detail-oriented. In Long Beach, outpatient coders typically earn between $25 and $33 per hour, depending on experience and credentials.
• Professional Fee (ProFee) Coding: ProFee coders focus on physician billing for services provided in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This role spans many specialties, including surgery and radiology. In Long Beach, ProFee coders often earn between $35 and $40 per hour, with high demand for those specializing in complex fields like spine surgery.
• Surgical Coding: Surgical coders specialize in operative procedures and ensure accurate documentation for high-value cases in fields such as orthopedics and neurosurgery. This specialty is among the top-paying in Long Beach, with salaries at the upper end of the local range due to the complexity and financial impact of surgical procedures.
• Risk Adjustment Coding: Coders in this area focus on identifying chronic conditions to support value-based care models like Medicare Advantage. They use HCC coding to help calculate patient risk scores. In Long Beach, risk adjustment coders often earn salaries equal to or above the local average, especially with specialized certifications.
• Compliance and Auditing: These professionals review coding and billing practices to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance. Often employed by hospitals or insurance companies, they help reduce errors and prevent fraud. In Long Beach, compliance and auditing roles frequently pay over $60,000 per year, reflecting their importance to healthcare organizations.

Is there a high demand for medical billers and coders in Long Beach, CA?

There are over 300 active medical coding job postings on major platforms such as Glassdoor and Indeed, with combined medical billing and coding roles exceeding 1,200 openings locally. This robust employment pool highlights Long Beach as a regional hub for healthcare employment, especially when compared to nearby cities like Los Angeles and Brea, where job availability tends to be lower or more specialized.

Nationwide, employment for medical records and health information specialists—which includes coders and billers—is projected to grow by 8% between 2022 and 2032, a rate significantly faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is fueled by factors such as an aging population, expanded healthcare services, and the increasing adoption of electronic health records, all relevant to Long Beach’s healthcare infrastructure.

When comparing employment numbers, Long Beach offers a concentrated and steady demand for coding professionals supported by large healthcare systems, hospitals, and outpatient centers. This contrasts with other cities where jobs may be fewer or more temporary. For individuals considering this career path, exploring whether is medical billing a good career can provide additional insights into the profession’s benefits and challenges. 

How long does it take to become certified in medical billing and coding in Long Beach, CA?

The time to become certified in medical coding and billing generally ranges from about 4 to 9 months. Many programs offer accelerated options; for instance, American Career College provides a fully online Medical Coding program that can be completed in under 8 months, while their Medical Billing program can be finished in approximately 7 months. Other offerings, such as those from Campus.edu, allow full-time students to complete certification in roughly 9 months, though part-time or evening schedules may extend the duration.

Some shorter, one-semester programs focus on preparing students for entry-level roles and national certification exams like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) within 4 to 5 months. Factors influencing how long certification takes include the program format (online, accelerated, part-time, or in-person), prior healthcare experience, externship requirements, and the student’s weekly commitment to coursework.

For those exploring options, online schools that offer medical billing and coding provide flexible pathways that may fit diverse schedules and help meet employment opportunities.

What’s the average cost of a medical billing and coding program in Long Beach, CA?

The cost of a medical billing and coding program varies widely based on the credential type and program length. Entry-level certificate programs, such as those offered fully online, may start around $1,995 for an 11-week course. More comprehensive training options, like certificates lasting up to seven months, can cost approximately $17,698, while associate degrees extending to about 14 months may reach $34,667 in tuition fees.

Several factors influence these costs, including whether the program is delivered online or in person, the institution's pricing policies, and the program’s duration. Additional expenses like textbooks, certification exam fees, and required externships or internships may further increase the total investment. Community colleges offer a more affordable alternative, particularly for residents paying roughly $46 per unit, though non-resident tuition can be significantly higher.

While the average annual salary for medical billers and coders here is about $45,700—slightly below the California state average—it remains competitive regionally. For those interested in further training options, exploring a medical billing and coding associates degree may provide a balanced approach between cost and comprehensive education.

How Can Advanced Certifications Elevate Your Healthcare Career?

Experienced professionals can broaden their scope by obtaining specialized credentials that bridge administrative expertise with clinical insights. Earning advanced certifications not only refines technical skills and enhances leadership capabilities but also facilitates smoother transitions into roles that require direct patient care. For instance, exploring pathways such as how to become a nurse practitioner in Long Beach offers a strategic avenue to diversify one’s qualifications. Such credentials can lead to increased earning potential, expanded responsibilities, and greater job security in an evolving healthcare landscape.

What does a medical biller and coder in Long Beach, CA do on a daily basis?

Medical billers and coders play a vital role in keeping healthcare systems running smoothly. Their day begins with reviewing patient records to identify diagnoses, procedures, and services that must be documented for insurance and compliance purposes. They then assign standardized codes—like ICD-10-CM and CPT—to translate medical information into billing data used for insurance claims.

Medical billers use these codes to prepare and submit insurance claims, making sure all information is accurate and complete. They verify insurance coverage, follow up on unpaid or denied claims, and work closely with insurance companies and healthcare providers to resolve any issues. In addition, they generate patient invoices and respond to billing questions, helping patients understand charges and supporting timely payments.

These professionals typically work in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, dental practices, and billing companies, with some remote positions available. Although their work is entirely administrative—they don’t provide medical care—it requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of insurance and coding rules, and full compliance with HIPAA and other privacy regulations.

For those considering this career path, exploring whether is medical billing and coding a good paying job can also be insightful when evaluating the profession’s viability and growth potential.

What are the most in-demand tech skills for medical billers and coders in Long Beach, CA?

Technology is rapidly changing the field of medical billing and coding. As healthcare providers adopt electronic health records (EHRs), automated coding tools, and cloud-based platforms, billers and coders must keep their technical skills up to date to stay effective and compliant.

Proficiency in EHR systems like Epic, Cerner, or Meditech is now essential. These platforms allow coders to enter, retrieve, and audit patient data accurately, supporting both billing and privacy. Knowledge of medical coding software that handles ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS codes is also critical. While automation can speed up processes, human oversight is still necessary to ensure coding accuracy and prevent errors.

Understanding digital claims processing systems helps streamline insurance submissions and minimize payment delays. Professionals skilled in these systems are in high demand as employers look to improve their revenue cycles.

Security and HIPAA compliance remain top priorities. Billers and coders must follow strict data protection protocols and use secure tools to safeguard patient information.

Other valuable tech skills include using spreadsheets like Excel to track payments, monitor billing trends, and prepare compliance reports. Familiarity with telehealth tools and remote work platforms is also increasingly important, as more billing jobs can now be done from home. Adaptability in digital environments gives job seekers a clear advantage.

For those considering certification, pursuing low-cost medical coding and billing online program can provide foundational knowledge and essential technical skills to thrive in the healthcare sector.

Can medical billers and coders work from home in Long Beach, CA?

Medical billers and coders are indeed permitted to work from home. By 2025, many local employers have adapted their operations to incorporate remote work options, reflecting both technological progress and changing workforce expectations. Job listings from platforms like Indeed show a significant number of remote positions, spanning entry-level to experienced roles, offered by diverse employers including hospitals, physician offices, and specialized healthcare groups.

This movement toward remote work aligns with broader industry shifts rather than being unique to Long Beach. National projections by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate a 9% growth in medical billing and coding jobs from 2023 to 2033, suggesting sustained demand and increasing employer openness to flexible work arrangements. Locally, over 160 job openings reported in mid-2025 highlight a substantial portion with remote or hybrid possibilities.

Successfully working from home as a medical biller or coder requires specific equipment and skills. Reliable high-speed internet and a secure computer setup are foundational, often supplemented by dual monitors to handle complex coding software and medical records efficiently. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and billing platforms is essential, as cloud-based tools dominate workflow management and secure data transfer. Additionally, proficiency in HIPAA-compliant communication tools is critical to maintain patient confidentiality.

Can My Billing and Coding Experience Expand My Healthcare Career Options?

Professionals in medical billing and coding can leverage their analytical skills, knowledge of healthcare compliance, and expertise in administrative processes to transition into broader healthcare roles. By capitalizing on practical experience, individuals may explore paths in healthcare administration, process improvement, or regulatory management that benefit from their detailed understanding of medical records and billing accuracy. Additionally, pursuing further specialized education or certifications can open avenues in clinical or adjacent fields. For instance, those interested in a more patient-centered or clinically focused path might consider exploring our guide on how to become a pharmacist in Long Beach as part of a diversified career strategy.

What Other Complementary Certifications Can Enhance My Healthcare Career in Long Beach, CA?

Expanding your skill set through additional, specialized certifications can provide a competitive edge in the evolving healthcare landscape. Complementary credentials not only diversify your expertise but also open new avenues in related fields, thereby positioning you for leadership and interdisciplinary roles. For instance, obtaining a Long Beach mental health counselor certification can facilitate a broader understanding of patient care and case management, fostering opportunities to work collaboratively in integrated healthcare teams. These certifications empower professionals to adapt to shifting industry demands and enhance their capacity to contribute across multiple levels of healthcare delivery.

What Medical Billers and Coders in Long Beach, CA Have to Say about Their Careers

I’ve found that working in this field allows me to support local healthcare providers efficiently, ensuring patients get the care they need without billing hassles. The community feels close-knit, and I love knowing my work helps keep it healthy and thriving. — Cassandra

After finishing my studies at Long Beach City College, I’ve grown tremendously both professionally and personally. The city’s diverse population presents unique challenges that sharpen my problem-solving skills daily. I appreciate the steady career opportunities available here, especially as healthcare continues evolving. — Jude

Long Beach’s dynamic healthcare sector offers countless chances for advancement and specialization in medical billing and coding. The city’s emphasis on innovation and community health initiatives provides a stimulating environment where I feel empowered to contribute meaningfully. — Amina

Other Things You Should Know about Becoming a Medical Biller & Coder in Long Beach, CA

What is the quickest way to become a medical coder in Long Beach, CA?

The quickest way to become a medical biller and coder is by enrolling in an accredited accelerated certificate program, some of which can be completed in as little as 11 weeks. Completion times vary depending on factors such as course format (full-time vs. part-time), prior experience, and personal availability. Flexible options like evening, weekend, or self-paced online classes can further reduce the timeline.

Medical billers and coders working from home typically need a reliable computer, secure internet connection, and specialized billing software. Success in this setup often hinges on strong time management, self-discipline, and maintaining clear communication with employers or clients to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Which medical coding certification is best in Long Beach, CA?

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential from the AAPC is widely regarded as the leading medical coding certification. Programs like Calbright College’s Medical Coding Certificate specifically prepare students for the CPC exam, emphasizing coding for physician services and outpatient care. Other certifications, such as the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) from NHA and credentials from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), also hold recognition in the area.

When choosing a certification, consider factors like program accreditation, exam pass rates, and employer preferences. Flexibility in course formats can also influence your decision. Given the expected job growth in California and competitive salaries, selecting a nationally recognized certification like the CPC could enhance employment prospects.

How do I find medical billing and coding job openings specifically in the Long Beach, CA area?

Finding medical billing and coding jobs is supported by a strong local market with over 1,200 listings on Indeed and more than 300 active employers. Opportunities exist for both entry-level candidates and seasoned professionals, with over 400 positions noted by ZipRecruiter.

Key employers include major healthcare organizations like City of Hope, along with hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Job seekers should utilize popular job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter, while also exploring direct connections with local employers to increase their chances.

Which major healthcare systems in Long Beach, CA employ medical billers and coders?

Healthcare systems and companies that employ medical billers and coders include major hospitals like City of Hope, local clinics, private practices, SCAN Health Plan, and specialized billing firms. In June 2025, there were over 300 job openings for both medical billing and coding positions, indicating strong local demand.

Employers generally require 2-3 years of relevant experience, proficiency in medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology, and often prefer certifications such as CPC or CCS. Entry-level salaries range from $17 to $19 per hour, with higher pay for experienced professionals.

References:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Medical records and health information specialists. Occupational Outlook Handbook.
• AAPC. (n.d.). Career in medical coding.
• American Career College. (n.d.). Can you do medical coding from home?
• American College of Healthcare and Technology. (2019, February). A day in the life of a medical biller and coder.
• Campus.edu. (n.d.). How to become a medical biller and coder in California.
• CPC 101. (n.d.). Medical billing and coding schools in Long Beach CA.
• Healthcare Career College. (n.d.). Be a medical biller and coder.
• MedicalBillingandCoding.org. (n.d.). Is medical billing and coding a career where I can work from home?