How much does an Interpreter make?

The average salary for an Interpreter is $58,340 per year in United States. Salaries estimates are based on 2297 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by an Interpreter employees in United States.

The highest salary for an Interpreter in United States is $77,593 per year.

The lowest salary for an Interpreter in United States is $43,983 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming an Interpreter or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of an Interpreter.

A career in interpretation usually allows candidates to travel extensively and to meet a wide variety of individuals. Pay varies by employer, which includes schools, hospitals, courtrooms, detention facilities and conference centers. Demand is especially high for interpreters with language skills in English, Spanish, Arabic and Mandarin. Interpreters with fluency in these languages generally command higher pay for their services and find more clients if they choose to take on extra work as freelancers.

Powered by Glassdoor Economic Research

Interpreter roles feature benefits such as flexible scheduling and a higher salary with experience. Through bonuses, contracts, and profit sharing, you could earn up to $3,160.99 in addition to your interpreter salary. Glassdoor ratings reveal that 57% of interpreters feel satisfied with their annual earnings.

Interpreter salary varies based on the languages you learn, demand in your area, and experience level. Additional work, such as freelance or contract gigs, can bolster your pay as you progress in the position following the interpreter career path. Professionals earn between $34,120.07 and $100,086.25, with the average interpreter making about $58,339.69 total every year.

As an interpreter, you have control over both your daily schedule and earnings. You could earn a high interpreter salary through an employer, but you could work on contract or as a freelancer. Whichever path you take, focus on building positive client relationships. If clients have great things to say about you, building your professional network comes naturally. Becoming fluent in more languages will also score you profitable positions, but consider your location. Interpreter roles are in demand in major cities with diverse populations, so an area with a large presence in your given language impacts income significantly. Also, try joining a professional organization such as the American Translators Association.

Information is vital to your earnings in an interpreter position, so always ask clients for in-depth details before you talk salary. Get the specifics: what materials they require, the length of the project, the deadline, and how and when your work is delivered. Now, go the extra mile. Are there any ways you could simplify this task for your client? Do you have helpful tips or advice to offer? The more you're able to help, the higher pay you can request. Learn what the client or your employer is willing to pay you and ask for up to 20% above that initial number.