Medical Assistants vs. Nursing Assistants: Who Earns More?
Medical Assistantss out-earn Nursing Assistantss by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Medical Assistantss land at $45,690 and Nursing Assistantss at $42,260. The education gap is real: medical assistant programs typically require postsecondary nondegree award, while nursing assistant programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Medical Assistantss is Washington ($59,290); for Nursing Assistantss it's Oregon ($49,830).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Medical Assistants median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Medical Assistantss or Nursing Assistantss?
Medical Assistantss earn more nationally. The median is $45,690 for Medical Assistantss versus $42,260 for Nursing Assistantss, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Medical Assistants or Nursing Assistants?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Medical Assistants or Nursing Assistants?
Medical Assistants typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Nursing Assistants requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Medical Assistantss get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Medical Assistantss at $59,290/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Medical Assistants vs. Nursing Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Medical Assistantss earn $59,290 vs. $49,180 for Nursing Assistantss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.