Medical Assistants: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 793,460 medical assistants, and they earn a median of $44,200/year. The range runs from $35K to $58K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level medical assistants start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($44K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $58K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $55K | 18,430 |
| Alaska | $52K | 2,420 |
| Oregon | $50K | 11,610 |
| District of Columbia | $50K | 2,530 |
| Minnesota | $49K | 9,930 |
| Hawaii | $49K | 3,830 |
| Massachusetts | $49K | 16,210 |
| California | $48K | 110,350 |
| New Hampshire | $48K | 2,990 |
| Wisconsin | $48K | 12,900 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make?▼
The median medical assistants salary in the United States is $44,200 per year ($21/hour). Entry-level positions start around $35,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $57,830.
What education do you need to become a medical assistants?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for medical assistants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for medical assistants.
What are the highest paying states for medical assistants?▼
The highest paying states for medical assistants are Washington ($55,120), Alaska ($51,860), Oregon ($49,900), District of Columbia ($49,740), Minnesota ($49,380). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.