Nursing Assistants vs. Medical Assistants: Who Earns More?
Medical Assistantss out-earn Nursing Assistantss by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Nursing Assistantss land at $42,260 and Medical Assistantss at $45,690. The education gap is real: nursing assistant programs typically require postsecondary nondegree award, while medical assistant programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Nursing Assistantss is Oregon ($49,830); for Medical Assistantss it's Washington ($59,290).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Nursing Assistants median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Nursing Assistantss or Medical Assistantss?
Medical Assistantss earn more nationally. The median is $42,260 for Nursing Assistantss versus $45,690 for Medical Assistantss, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Nursing Assistants or Medical 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, Nursing Assistants or Medical Assistants?
Nursing Assistants typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Medical Assistants requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Nursing Assistantss get paid the most?
Oregon is the top-paying state for Nursing Assistantss at $49,830/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Nursing Assistants vs. Medical Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Nursing Assistantss earn $49,830 vs. $50,410 for Medical Assistantss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.