Interpreter Salary in New York City, NY: $106,758 (2026)

Interpreter Pay in New York City: What to Expect (2026)

New York City offers a median interpreter salary of $106,758, which is $37,108 above the New York state average of $69,650. Compared to the national median of $57,090, New York City pays above average for this role.

However, New York City's cost of living index is 187%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $106,758 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $57,090. Housing, transportation, and food costs in New York City should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.

The salary range for interpreters in New York City spans from $59,840 at the 10th percentile to $188,870 at the 90th percentile — a $129,030 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $65,450, while senior interpreters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $177,650. As a major metro area with a population of 8,336,817, New York City typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Interpreter Salary in New York City by Experience

In New York City, an entry-level interpreter earns around $65,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $177,650 per year. The local cost of living index is 187% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$65,450

+$30,450 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$108,460

+$50,460 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$177,650

+$82,650 vs national

Percentile	New York City	NY State	National
10th Percentile	$59,840	$39,040	$32,000
25th Percentile	$78,540	$51,240	$42,000
Median (50th)	$106,758	$69,650	$57,090
75th Percentile	$145,860	$95,160	$78,000
90th Percentile	$188,870	$123,220	$101,000

Percentile

New York City

10th Percentile

$59,840

25th Percentile

$78,540

Median (50th)

$106,758

75th Percentile

$145,860

90th Percentile

$188,870

How to Become a Interpreter in New York City

Education

Most interpreter positions require a bachelor's degree. New York City and the surrounding New York area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Bilingual FluencyConsecutive InterpretingSimultaneous InterpretingCultural CompetencyMemoryProfessionalism

Job Outlook

Nationally, interpreter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in New York City may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Interpreter Salary in New York City

How much does a Interpreter make in New York City, NY? ▼

The median interpreter salary in New York City, New York is $106,758 per year, which is 87.0% above the national median of $57,090. Salaries range from $59,840 (10th percentile) to $188,870 (90th percentile).

How much does a Interpreter make per hour in New York City? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $106,758, a interpreter in New York City earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does New York City compare to the New York state average for interpreter pay? ▼

New York City's median interpreter salary of $106,758 is 53.3% above the New York state average of $69,650. The local cost of living index is 187% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in New York City, NY? ▼

New York City has a cost of living index of 187% compared to the national average. This means a interpreter salary of $106,758 in New York City has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a interpreter in New York City? ▼

Most interpreter positions in New York City require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Bilingual Fluency, Consecutive Interpreting, Simultaneous Interpreting, Cultural Competency. The job market is projected to grow 4% nationally over the next decade.

Interpreter Salary in New York City, New York