How to Become a Medical Assistants in Alabama
Medical Assistants in Alabama earn a median salary of $34,980/year, which is 21% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $968/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Alabama
Becoming a medical assistants in Alabama
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Alabama typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants positions in Alabama require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Alabama licensure or certification
Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Alabama
Alabama employs 12,760 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Huntsville and Birmingham.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Alabama
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntsville | $36K | $17.44/hr | 1,750 |
| Birmingham | $36K | $17.14/hr | 3,600 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley | $35K | $17/hr | 450 |
| Tuscaloosa | $35K | $16.87/hr | 570 |
| Montgomery | $35K | $16.85/hr | 800 |
| Mobile | $35K | $16.73/hr | 1,190 |
| Decatur | $35K | $16.63/hr | 310 |
| Auburn-Opelika | $34K | $16.44/hr | 390 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals | $34K | $16.35/hr | 490 |
| Anniston-Oxford | $33K | $15.84/hr | 370 |
| Dothan | $32K | $15.23/hr | 540 |
| Gadsden | $31K | $15/hr | 430 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Alabama
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Alabama?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Alabama is $34,980 per year ($16.82/hr). This is 21% below the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $28,280 to $43,530.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Alabama?▼
Medical Assistants positions in Alabama typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in Alabama?▼
At the median salary of $34,980, a medical assistants in Alabama would take home approximately $2,380/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 59.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Alabama?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Alabama are Huntsville ($36,280), Birmingham ($35,640), Daphne-Fairhope-Foley ($35,370). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Alabama have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $34,980 salary, this means roughly $1,584/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.