Interpreting is a highly specialized skill that requires fluency in multiple languages, industry knowledge, and the ability to translate spoken communication in real time. But how much do interpreters actually make per hour in the United States? The answer varies depending on experience, industry, location, and job type.

Average Hourly Rate for Interpreters

As of **2025**, the **average hourly pay for an interpreter in the US is $31.89**, according to **ZipRecruiter**. However, wages can vary widely:
**Lowest 10% of interpreters:** $14.30/hour
**25th percentile:** $25.24/hour
**75th percentile:** $38.70/hour
**Top interpreters:** $40–$100/hour or more

Freelance interpreters or specialists in high-demand fields often earn significantly higher rates.

Hourly Rates by Industry

The industry an interpreter works in **greatly impacts their earnings**. Here’s a breakdown of the **average hourly wages** in different sectors:
**Legal & Court Interpreting:** $50–$150/hour
**Medical Interpreting (Hospitals & Clinics):** $40–$120/hour
**Financial & Business Interpreting:** $45–$100/hour
**Conference Interpreting (Simultaneous):** $80–$200/hour
**Education & Community Services:** $27–$35/hour
**Government Interpreting (Local & Federal):** $30–$50/hour
**Interpreters working in law, medicine, and finance often command the highest rates due to the complexity and accuracy required.**

Hourly Rates by Location

Where an interpreter works also affects their pay, as wages reflect regional demand and cost of living.

High-paying cities:

Portland, OR: $31.79/hour
Los Angeles, CA: $26.32/hour
Washington, DC: $25.69/hour

Lower-paying locations:

San Diego, CA: $26.30/hour
Meridian, ID: $25.00/hour

Major metro areas with diverse populations tend to pay higher rates due to increased demand for language services.

Freelance vs. Full-Time Interpreters: Who Earns More?

Interpreters can work as freelancers, for agencies, or as full-time employees—each has different earning potential.

Work Type	Hourly Pay Range	Pros & Cons
Freelance Interpreters	$30–$200/hr	✅ High rates, flexible schedule ❌ Inconsistent work
Agency Contract Interpreters	$20–$50/hr	✅ Steady projects ❌ Lower rates
Staff Interpreters (Hospitals, Courts, Schools)	$25–$40/hr	✅ Full-time salary, benefits ❌ Less flexibility

Is Interpreting a Stressful Job?

Yes, interpreting can be stressful, especially in high-pressure settings like courtrooms, medical emergencies, or international conferences. However, specialized interpreters earn more because of this challenge.

Low-stress interpreting: Education, community events

Moderate-stress interpreting: Business meetings, government work
High-stress interpreting: Legal trials, medical emergencies, live broadcasts

What’s a Good Hourly Rate for an Interpreter?

A good hourly rate for an interpreter in the US is $30–$50/hr, but highly skilled interpreters in law, medicine, and finance can earn $80–$200/hr. Location, experience, and work type all impact wages.