Physician Assistants: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 155,540 physician assistants, and they earn a median of $133,260/year. The range runs from $95K to $182K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level physician assistants start around $95K. The gap between that and the median ($133K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $182K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $163K | 440 |
| California | $161K | 13,570 |
| Washington | $157K | 3,310 |
| New York | $153K | 19,390 |
| Oregon | $149K | 1,930 |
| Rhode Island | $142K | 600 |
| New Jersey | $140K | 2,370 |
| New Mexico | $140K | 640 |
| Minnesota | $139K | 3,790 |
| Missouri | $139K | 1,650 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physician assistants make?▼
The median physician assistants salary in the United States is $133,260 per year ($64/hour). Entry-level positions start around $95,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $182,200.
What education do you need to become a physician 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 physician assistants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for physician assistants.
What are the highest paying states for physician assistants?▼
The highest paying states for physician assistants are Hawaii ($163,020), California ($161,080), Washington ($156,990), New York ($152,650), Oregon ($149,130). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.