How to Become a Medical Assistants in North Carolina
Medical Assistants in North Carolina earn a median salary of $42,600/year, which is 4% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $1,451/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a medical assistants in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 23,970 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Durham-Chapel Hill.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $45K | $21.79/hr | 6,890 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $45K | $21.69/hr | 1,930 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $44K | $21.26/hr | 1,490 |
| Burlington | $44K | $21.14/hr | 320 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $43K | $20.63/hr | 3,370 |
| Winston-Salem | $42K | $20.27/hr | 1,340 |
| Greenville | $41K | $19.79/hr | 550 |
| Asheville | $40K | $19.19/hr | 1,380 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $40K | $19.13/hr | 330 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $40K | $19.1/hr | 900 |
| Wilmington | $39K | $18.85/hr | 1,310 |
| Rocky Mount | $39K | $18.61/hr | 150 |
| Fayetteville | $38K | $18.12/hr | 730 |
| Goldsboro | $37K | $17.88/hr | 130 |
| Jacksonville | $36K | $17.34/hr | 210 |
Medical Assistants salary range in North Carolina
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in North Carolina?▼
The median medical assistants salary in North Carolina is $42,600 per year ($20.48/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $34,920 to $51,720.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in North Carolina?▼
Medical Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $42,600, a medical assistants in North Carolina would take home approximately $2,863/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 49.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($45,330), Durham-Chapel Hill ($45,110), Greensboro-High Point ($44,220). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $42,600 salary, this means roughly $1,917/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.