Medical Assistant Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $59,290 | |
| Alaska | $52,560 | |
| District of Columbia | $51,050 | |
| Minnesota | $50,480 | |
| Oregon | $50,410 | |
| California | $49,660 | |
| Massachusetts | $49,460 | |
| Wisconsin | $48,680 | |
| National Median | $45,690 |
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The highest sticker pay isn't always where medical assistants keep the most. See Medical Assistant pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Medical Assistant
Medical assistants handle clinical and administrative tasks in physicians' offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
Meet the education requirement
Most medical assistants enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $36,050 and rises toward $59,310 with experience.
Medical Assistant salary: common questions
How much does a Medical Assistant make an hour?
The median hourly wage for medical assistants is $21.97, which works out to about $45,690 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays medical assistants the most?
Washington has the highest median pay for medical assistants at $59,290 per year — 30% above the national median of $45,690.
What is the salary range for medical assistants?
Most medical assistants earn between $36,050 and $59,310 per year. The middle 50% earn $38,470 to $49,180, with a median of $45,690.
Is becoming a Medical Assistant a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 14% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $45,690 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.