Interpreters

Earnings for interpreters vary depending on experience, skills, number of languages used, and employers. In February 2025, ZipRecruiter indicated that annual salaries for interpreters ranged from $26,000 to $84,000, averaging $66,330. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that interpreters and translators earned median annual salaries of $57,090 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,410 annually, while the highest 10 percent earned $97,100 or more. Median annual salaries were highest for interpreters working in the professional, scientific, and technical services field, at $59,070. Those working for the government earned $64,350. Interpreters at state, local, and private hospitals earned $58,650, while those employed by educational services earned median annual salaries of $58,100.

According to Glassdoor, as of June 2024, translators for the United Nations earned anywhere from $54,000 to $97,000 annually.

Interpreters who work on a freelance basis usually charge by the word, the page, the hour, or the project. Some also charge by the half day or full day.

Freelance interpreters for international conferences or meetings can earn between $300 and $500 a day from the U.S. government.

Interpreters working in a specialized field have high earning potential. The U.S. federal courts pay $566 per day and $320 per half day for federally certified court interpreters. Non-certified court interpreters earn $350 per day and $190 per half day. Most work as freelancers, earning annual salaries from $30,000 to $100,000 a year.

Depending on the employer, interpreters often enjoy such benefits as health and life insurance, pension plans, and paid vacation and sick days.