How to Become a Medical Assistants in Pennsylvania
Medical Assistants in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $42,810/year, which is 3% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $1,515/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a medical assistants in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Pennsylvania typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 23,650 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Reading.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $46K | $22.04/hr | 12,650 |
| Reading | $45K | $21.49/hr | 810 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $44K | $21.23/hr | 1,730 |
| Lebanon | $43K | $20.62/hr | 190 |
| Chambersburg | $42K | $20.43/hr | 280 |
| State College | $42K | $20.37/hr | 220 |
| Gettysburg | $42K | $20.14/hr | 150 |
| Lancaster | $42K | $20.01/hr | 1,040 |
| York-Hanover | $41K | $19.69/hr | 900 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $41K | $19.58/hr | 1,420 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $40K | $19.26/hr | 880 |
| Pittsburgh | $40K | $18.99/hr | 4,560 |
| Williamsport | $39K | $18.8/hr | 190 |
| Erie | $38K | $18.39/hr | 590 |
| Altoona | $38K | $18.12/hr | 300 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Pennsylvania
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Pennsylvania is $42,810 per year ($20.58/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $35,720 to $49,890.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Pennsylvania?▼
Medical Assistants positions in Pennsylvania typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $42,810, a medical assistants in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $2,927/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 48.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($45,830), Reading ($44,710), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($44,150). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $42,810 salary, this means roughly $1,314/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.