Coroners
O*NET 13-1041.06 · SOC 13-1041
Coroner is a solid career choice. Median pay is $81k a year with +3.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 32,700 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Examine bodies at death scenes to determine cause of death.
- →Order autopsies when cause of death is unclear or suspicious.
- →Review medical records and toxicology reports for death investigations.
- →Sign and certify official death certificates for legal purposes.
- →Testify in court regarding findings from death investigations.
Education & How to Get In
Most Coroner positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Coroner involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Coroner?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Coroner Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Coroners is projected to grow 3.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Coroner make?
The median Coroner earns $81k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Coroner jobs?
Our model puts Coroner at 40 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target.
Is Coroner a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 32,700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Coroner?
Most Coroner roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Coroner?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Coroner career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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