How to Become a Medical Assistants in Arkansas
Medical Assistants in Arkansas earn a median salary of $37,150/year, which is 16% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $1,139/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Arkansas
Becoming a medical assistants in Arkansas
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Arkansas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification
Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Arkansas
Arkansas employs 4,990 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway and Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Arkansas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway | $38K | $18.33/hr | 1,800 |
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers | $38K | $18.18/hr | 1,150 |
| Hot Springs | $37K | $17.7/hr | 230 |
| Jonesboro | $36K | $17.47/hr | 210 |
| Fort Smith | $36K | $17.17/hr | 330 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Arkansas
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Arkansas?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Arkansas is $37,150 per year ($17.86/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $30,620 to $45,750.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Arkansas?▼
Medical Assistants positions in Arkansas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in Arkansas?▼
At the median salary of $37,150, a medical assistants in Arkansas would take home approximately $2,551/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 55.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Arkansas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Arkansas are Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($38,120), Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($37,800), Hot Springs ($36,810). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Arkansas have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $37,150 salary, this means roughly $1,281/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.