Medical Assistant Salary – How Much Does a Medical Assistant Make for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Medical assistants are integral in the healthcare industry. They provide administrative and clinical support, ensuring the smooth operation of healthcare facilities and delivering quality patient care. Thus, more than 117,000 medical assistant jobs are expected to be available between 2021 and 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

Aside from the demand, people who want to work in this field should also consider how much a medical assistant salary is. While this is a well-paying job, the salary varies based on experience, education, location, and the type of healthcare facility. For example, in occupational therapy, the highest paid occupational therapist is a travel OT who can get paid from $96,000 to $171,000 annually (ZipRecruiter, 2023). Pursuing healthcare administration courses and additional certifications can increase earning potential in this field.

For those interested in the administrative side of healthcare, a medical assistant career can serve as a stepping stone toward healthcare administration roles. In line with this, our team of researchers gathered valuable and reliable information that will examine how much do medical assistants make and the factors that affect their income.

Medical Assistant Salary Table of Contents

What is a medical assistant?
Medical Assistant Salary Outlook
How to Become a Medical Assistant
Exploring Flexible Education Paths for Aspiring Medical Assistants
What soft skills are essential for medical assistants?
Should medical assistants consider a master’s degree for career advancement?
Is a medical assistant salary worth it?
How can online medical assistant programs impact your salary?
How Do You Choose the Best Accelerated Medical Assistant Program?
Is an Accelerated PharmD Degree a Strategic Path for Advanced Healthcare Roles?
How Do Emerging Healthcare Technologies Influence Medical Assistant Career Growth?
Short-Term Training Programs and Certifications for Career Growth
What is the return on investment for advanced certifications?
What are the alternatives to a medical assistant career?
Can a One-Year MPH Degree Accelerate Your Healthcare Career?

What is a medical assistant?

Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical work in various healthcare settings like offices of physicians, hospitals, and outpatient care centers. They work with doctors and surgeons, schedule patient appointments, record vital signs, and review medical histories, among other important tasks.

The great thing about this job is that medical assistants can earn a specialization. Doing so allows them to find a job that suits their skills and command a better medical assistant salary.

Those who completed a medical office administration course can become administrative medical assistants. They will be responsible for filling out insurance forms, recording billing codes, and preparing patients for X-rays.

Considering all of these duties, they often get compensated handsomely. In fact, the administrative medical assistant salary ranges from $27,000 to $41,000 per year depending on the location, years of experience, and type of employer (Zippia, n.d.).

Medical Assistant Salary Outlook

The average annual medical assistant salary is $37,190 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). That is more than double the federal minimum wage and can increase to $43,000 per year as they acquire more education, skills, and experience. Additionally, the top-paying industries for medical assistants are insurance providers, consulting services, and colleges that offer two-year postsecondary courses.

Geographic Profile for Medical Assistants

Aspiring medical assistants willing to relocate for better compensation can move to top-paying states like Washington, the District of Columbia, and Alaska. The grass is greener in The Golden State, too, as the average medical assistant salary in California is $47,850 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

On the other hand, the state that offers the lowest medical assistant salary is Louisiana. The average salary of a medical assistant working in this state is $31,890 annually (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

States

Hourly Mean Wage

Annual Mean Wage

Washington

$ 24.21

$ 50,350

District of Columbia

$ 24.05

$ 50,020

Alaska

$ 23.75

$ 49,400

California

$ 23.01

$ 47,850

Minnesota

$ 22.76

$ 47,330

Educational Profile for Medical Assistants

Becoming a medical assistant requires having a high school diploma and related certification. Nonetheless, 24% of medical assistants in the US have an associate degree (Zippia, n.d.). More than half of them (58%) major in medical assisting services.

Meanwhile, furthering their education can help advance their career and improve their medical assistant salary. Earning a graduate degree in health informatics allows one to become a health information technologist and earn $55,560 annually (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023.)

Another way medical assistants can advance their careers is by earning professional certifications. Doing so enables them to develop their skills, impacting their earning potential. To give you an idea of how much do certified medical assistants make, recent data shows it amounts to around $43,604 per year (Indeed, n.d.). Compared to a certified pharmacy technician salary, medical assistants make a little more annually on average.

Some of the certifications that medical assistants can take are:

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
Nationally Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)

How to Become a Medical Assistant

Depending on their career goals, aspiring medical assistants can take one of the two paths. Most employers look for postsecondary degree holders, while some hire high school graduates. Hence, our research experts collected valuable information to help students examine the steps they can take to become medical assistants.

Career Requirements

High School Diploma or GED Certificate. Employers require aspiring medical assistants to have at least a high school diploma or GED certificate. Additionally, students can take business management, communications, and human anatomy classes to prepare for this job.
Diploma or Certificate in Medical Assisting Program. Students who want to pursue a postsecondary education can benefit from enrolling in a medical assisting program. It usually takes two years to complete an associate degree, while certification programs can last between nine and 12 months. This is pretty short compared to how many years to become a pharmacist or other roles in healthcare that require at least a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Professional Certification. Although not required, employers prefer certified medical assistants. That is because certification demonstrates that the applicant has the knowledge and skills to do their job. Meanwhile, this can help in commanding a higher medical assistant salary. The average salary for a registered medical assistant is $49,897 annually (Glassdoor, 2022).
Continuing Education or Specialization. Aside from getting certified, specialization can help advance a medical assistant’s career. It also allows them to work in the preferred setting and contribute to a field they are passionate about.

States

Hourly Mean Wage

Annual Mean Wage

Gynecology Medical Assistant

$68.93

$143,366

Dermatology Medical Assistant

$21.01

$43,693

Podiatrist Medical Assistant

$20.18

$41,973

Cardiology Medical Assistant

$20.00

$41,601

Ophthalmic Medical Assistant

$15.87

$33,014

General Requirements

Clinical Skills. Medical assistants should possess essential clinical skills to assist healthcare professionals with patient care. This includes knowledge in taking vital signs, administering medications, performing basic laboratory tests, and preparing patients for examinations or treatments.
Technical Skills. Proficiency in using medical equipment and technology is essential for medical assistants. They should be comfortable with electronic health records (EHR) systems, medical billing software, and other healthcare-related technologies. Additionally, basic computer skills and the ability to quickly adapt to new technologies are valuable assets.
Organizational Skills. Medical assistants often handle various administrative tasks, like scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and managing medical supplies. Strong organizational skills are vital for prioritizing tasks, managing time efficiently, and maintaining an orderly and efficient healthcare environment.
Attention to Detail. Medical assistants must pay close attention to detail to ensure accurate documentation, medication administration, and patient information management. Attention to detail is essential for preventing errors and maintaining patient safety.
Communication Skills. Effective communication is crucial in medical assisting. Medical assistants must have strong verbal and written communication skills to interact with patients, explain procedures, and document patient information accurately. They should also be attentive listeners to ensure they understand and convey information effectively.

Exploring Flexible Education Paths for Aspiring Medical Assistants

Aspiring medical assistants who aim to advance their careers or pivot to related healthcare roles can benefit significantly from flexible education options. One of the best strategies to accomplish this is by choosing online programs, which offer the convenience of balancing work, education, and personal responsibilities. These programs provide not only theoretical knowledge but also hands-on training sections, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their roles.

Moreover, online degree programs can be a cost-effective solution for obtaining the necessary credentials without accruing significant student debt. For example, individuals seeking an affordable route to enter the profession or transition into a healthcare-related role can explore the cheapest easiest online degree options. These programs offer a streamlined educational pathway, making it easier for learners to achieve their career goals efficiently.

In addition to the affordability and flexibility of online programs, some institutions allow medical assistants to specialize in areas like coding, billing, or clinical practices. These specializations can enhance employability and open doors to higher-paying roles within the healthcare system. For those who seek long-term professional advancement, combining a general medical assistant program with focused online certifications or degrees can be an excellent career growth strategy. Taking advantage of such opportunities ensures continuous learning and adaptability in an ever-evolving field.

What soft skills are essential for medical assistants?

Medical assistants need a combination of technical skills and soft skills to excel in their roles. Soft skills are crucial for effectively managing interactions, ensuring patient comfort, and contributing to a positive healthcare environment. Key soft skills include:

Empathy and Compassion: Medical assistants often work with patients who may be experiencing stress or discomfort. Showing empathy helps build trust and reassures patients, enhancing their overall experience.
Adaptability: Healthcare settings can be unpredictable. The ability to adapt quickly to changes, manage unexpected situations, and work under pressure is vital for maintaining quality patient care.
Teamwork: Medical assistants collaborate closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Effective teamwork ensures smooth operations, clear communication, and comprehensive patient care.
Conflict Resolution: Situations may arise where medical assistants need to address patient complaints or misunderstandings professionally. Conflict resolution skills are important for maintaining a positive work environment.
Time Management: Medical assistants juggle multiple tasks, from scheduling appointments to assisting with clinical procedures. Good time management helps them prioritize tasks and maintain an organized workflow.

Mastering these soft skills can greatly enhance a medical assistant’s effectiveness, helping them to provide compassionate care and efficiently manage their responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

Should medical assistants consider a master’s degree for career advancement?

Advanced education can help transition a medical assistant into leadership roles within clinical and administrative functions. Earning a master’s degree enables professionals to develop competencies in strategic management, healthcare policy, and financial oversight—skills increasingly valued in evolving healthcare settings. For those looking to elevate their career trajectory while enhancing earning potential, exploring our article on master in healthcare administration online programs is a strategic option that can set the stage for long-term professional growth.

Is a medical assistant salary worth it?

Considering the expected job opportunity growth and opportunity to earn more than double the federal minimum wage makes being a medical assistant worth it. This can only mean that graduates can quickly find employment and receive a better medical assistant salary. Moreover, this profession lets them contribute to improving the healthcare system.

What can I do with a medical assistant degree?

Medical Records Specialist

Medical records specialists are responsible for compiling, processing, and maintaining patient files. Medical assistants with an associate degree in medical billing and coding can quickly pursue this career since technical skills are integral to performing their role well. This includes gathering patients’ medical histories and health information and entering them into electronic health records (EHR) systems.

Median salary: $46,660

Staff Nurse

Medical assistants who pursue an MA-to-RN bridge program can advance their careers and become staff nurses. They are licensed healthcare professionals that assist and provide direct patient care. Hence, they can administer medication and other treatments and consult with healthcare providers.

Median salary: $68,342

Registered Nurse Supervisor

A registered nurse supervisor oversees a team of RNs in a healthcare setting. Part of their responsibility is to evaluate, develop, and assign schedules and patients to nurses. RN supervisors ensure that healthcare operations are efficient and up to standard.

Median salary: $74,147

Clinical Services Manager

A clinical services manager conducts client assessments. This includes identifying patients to provide high-quality care, developing and maintaining care plans, and training healthcare staff in providing appropriate services. Additionally, they monitor daily clinical operations to ensure they provide patients with the utmost care.

Median salary: $74,232

How can I advance my career as a medical assistant?

Continuing education to advance a career can help boost a medical assistant salary. Thus, pursuing a diploma or associate degree in medical assisting is advisable. It can also help to receive certifications from a nationally-recognized organization, such as The American Association of Medical Assistants.

Certification allows medical assistants to pursue jobs that align with their passion or interest. For instance, the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is ideal for medical assistants who want to be more involved in clinical procedures. This includes gathering patient information and medical history, assisting health workers in patient care, and working with physicians to prepare medications and other treatments. More importantly, the average clinical medical assistant salary is $37,052 annually (Zippia, n.d.).

Moving to a new state is another way medical assistants can advance their careers. For instance, the average annual medical assistant salary in Florida is $37,870 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). That is $5,000 more than the salary of a medical assistant in Louisiana.

Lastly, medical assistants can also consider switching industries to advance their careers. While it is common for medical assistants to work in a clinic or hospital, their services are also needed in schools, research and development centers, and insurance companies. In relation to this, medical assistants who work in an insurance company can earn an average of $51,410 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). But if you would rather advance your career in a different field, such as nursing, you will have to go back to school to become a registered nurse and study further to gain a master’s degree or become a nurse practitioner. You can choose a specialization, such as pediatric nursing and enjoy the pediatric nurse practitioner salary, which is currently around $100 to $130,000 on average (Salary.com, 2023).

Pros and Cons of Being a Medical Assistant

Being a medical assistant has its set of advantages and disadvantages. Assessing aspiring medical assistants’ interests, career goals, and skills can help them decide to pursue this profession.

Pros of Being a Medical Assistant:

Job Stability. The healthcare industry continues to experience growth, and medical assistants are in high demand. This translates into increased job stability and various employment opportunities across various healthcare settings.
Diverse Responsibilities. Medical assistants enjoy a varied workday, engaging in administrative and clinical tasks. This diversity can keep the job exciting and provide opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
Fulfilling Patient Interaction. Medical assistants often have direct patient contact, providing care, support, and reassurance. Building relationships with patients and contributing to their well-being can be highly rewarding and fulfilling.
Entry-Level Accessibility. Becoming a medical assistant requires completing a postsecondary education program or gaining on-the-job training. This accessibility allows individuals to enter healthcare relatively quickly and begin their career journey.

Cons of Being a Medical Assistant:

Demanding Work Environment. Healthcare settings can be fast-paced and demanding, requiring medical assistants to multitask, handle high patient volumes, and manage time efficiently. The workload can be challenging, particularly during busy periods.
Physical and Emotional Demands. Medical assistants may need to stand for long periods, lift and move patients, and handle emotionally challenging situations. This job’s physical and emotional demands can be strenuous and require resilience.
Limited Advancement Opportunities. While there are opportunities for growth and specialization within medical assisting, the career path may need more upward mobility than other healthcare professions. Pursuing higher degrees or certifications may be necessary to advance to roles like healthcare administration or nursing.
Exposure to Illnesses. Working in a healthcare setting exposes medical assistants to various illnesses and potentially infectious diseases. Adhering to strict safety protocols and taking necessary precautions is crucial to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading infections.

How can online medical assistant programs impact your salary?

In 2024, aspiring medical assistants are increasingly choosing online programs for their flexibility and accessibility. These programs offer an excellent opportunity for individuals who need to balance work, family commitments, or other responsibilities while pursuing a career in healthcare. But how do online medical assistant programs impact salary potential?

First, online programs allow students to pursue certification or an associate degree in medical assisting without needing to attend on-campus classes. This flexibility often means individuals can graduate more quickly and enter the workforce sooner, allowing them to start earning and gaining experience, which can directly impact salary growth.

Moreover, while the salary for a medical assistant may vary based on location, experience, and education level, earning a degree or certification online can help increase a medical assistant's qualifications and, in turn, their earning potential. For example, a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) can expect a higher salary than an entry-level medical assistant. Additionally, many online programs offer specialized tracks, such as medical office administration or clinical specialties (e.g., cardiology or gynecology), that can significantly boost your earning potential.

If you're looking for an affordable and convenient path to a rewarding medical assistant career, exploring cheap online medical assistant programs is a great option. Programs that combine affordable tuition with high-quality education can set you on the path to a higher-paying role in the medical field.

Additionally, online programs often include internships or externship opportunities, which can be completed at local healthcare facilities. These hands-on experiences are invaluable for both skill development and networking, leading to better job prospects and higher salaries after graduation.

By opting for an online program, you not only gain the necessary skills but also stay ahead in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, positioning yourself for long-term career success and salary growth.

How Do You Choose the Best Accelerated Medical Assistant Program?

When evaluating accelerated online medical assistant programs, assess accreditation status, curriculum design, and practicum opportunities to ensure the program meets industry standards. Review program success metrics—such as graduate employment rates and student support services—to verify that the course efficiently prepares you for a competitive healthcare environment. Consider factors like cost, program duration, and career resources, and compare these criteria with current market needs. For an in-depth look at top options, explore accelerated online medical assistant programs.

Is an Accelerated PharmD Degree a Strategic Path for Advanced Healthcare Roles?

Accelerated PharmD pathways have emerged as a viable option for healthcare professionals looking to expand their clinical expertise and transition into pharmacy-related roles. For medical assistants exploring opportunities beyond traditional responsibilities, this intensive program offers a focused curriculum designed to build advanced pharmaceutical and clinical competencies rapidly. Evaluating such programs requires a detailed assessment of curriculum rigor, certification prerequisites, and long-term career outcomes in specialized roles like clinical pharmacy or medication therapy management. For further insights on available programs that may align with your advanced career objectives, review the best accelerated PharmD degree.

How Do Emerging Healthcare Technologies Influence Medical Assistant Career Growth?

The integration of digital tools and telemedicine is reshaping healthcare roles by urging medical assistants to expand their technical competencies. Advanced software for managing electronic health records, virtual communication platforms, and data analytics is directly influencing clinical workflows and administrative efficiency. Embracing these innovations can enable professionals to enhance productivity, adapt to evolving patient care models, and position themselves for leadership opportunities. Furthermore, evolving educational pathways that combine clinical skills with tech proficiency, such as pursuing affordable PharmD programs, reflect the industry’s shift towards interdisciplinary excellence.

Short-Term Training Programs and Certifications for Career Growth

For medical assistants, short-term training programs and certifications can be an excellent way to boost career prospects and earning potential. Programs like CCMA or CMAA provide focused knowledge and credentials that employers value. These certifications not only enhance your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to professional growth.

A great option for those looking to specialize or pivot within the healthcare field is exploring a 4 week online course for medical coding and billing cost. This certification allows medical assistants to transition into health information management roles, where they can apply their clinical knowledge to administrative tasks like coding diagnoses and processing insurance claims.

By pursuing short-term certifications, medical assistants can diversify their skills, qualify for higher-paying roles, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving healthcare industry. These programs are especially valuable for those balancing work with continuing education, as many are offered online and require minimal time investment.

What is the return on investment for advanced certifications?

Advanced certifications offer a strategic advantage by directly impacting long-term earnings and career advancement. They enable professionals to specialize in niche clinical or administrative roles, making them more competitive in the evolving healthcare landscape. Analyzing the financial outlay and subsequent salary boost is crucial in validating the cost-effectiveness of such programs. Interested candidates can review detailed cost analyses by exploring how much does it cost for medical billing and coding school. Selecting certification programs with a clear and measurable return on investment is essential for maximizing both professional growth and long-term financial benefits.

What are the alternatives to a medical assistant career?

For those interested in exploring related career paths, medical billing and coding is an option to consider. To learn more about the pros and cons of this profession, visit is medical billing and coding in demand for in-depth information. Additionally, other alternatives include healthcare administration, nursing, or specialized roles like medical records specialist or clinical services manager. These careers often offer varying salary ranges and growth opportunities, allowing individuals to choose a path that aligns with their skills, interests, and career goals.

Can a One-Year MPH Degree Accelerate Your Healthcare Career?

Medical assistants with clinical expertise can extend their impact by pursuing an advanced degree that complements their hands-on experience. A focused Master of Public Health program offers specialized training in strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and health policy—all of which are valuable for transitioning into leadership or administrative roles. This pathway not only enhances one’s professional portfolio but also expands career options beyond traditional clinical settings. Evaluating program outcomes and curriculum details is essential to ensure the chosen degree aligns with long-term career goals. For a concise, intensive study option, consider exploring one year MPH programs.

Pursue a Fulfilling Career as a Medical Assistant

Embarking on a medical assistant career can offer a fulfilling and rewarding path in the healthcare industry. Despite the challenges, the profession provides opportunities for stability, professional growth, and meaningful patient interaction. With a competitive medical assistant salary and a growing demand for healthcare services, individuals entering this field can find financial stability while making a difference in people’s lives.

Exploring online healthcare administration courses can be a valuable option for those seeking advancement beyond medical assisting. Such courses can provide the necessary knowledge and skills to transition into administrative roles within the healthcare field. By combining the clinical expertise gained as a medical assistant with healthcare administration education, individuals can expand their career opportunities and pursue higher-paying roles.

Ultimately, the journey of a medical assistant offers a unique blend of patient care, administrative responsibilities, and potential career progression. By staying updated on industry trends, continuing education, and seeking out opportunities for professional development, individuals can forge a fulfilling and successful path in this vital healthcare profession.

Key Insights

High Demand and Job Growth: The medical assistant profession is expected to see over 117,000 job openings until 2031, driven by the growing healthcare industry.
Competitive Salaries: The average annual salary for medical assistants is $37,190, with potential for higher earnings based on experience, education, location, and specialization.
Diverse Roles: Medical assistants can specialize in areas like administrative support, clinical assistance, or specific medical fields such as gynecology or cardiology, which can lead to varied job opportunities and salary increases.
Educational Pathways: While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement, pursuing postsecondary education, certifications, or associate degrees can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
Geographic Variability: Salaries for medical assistants vary significantly by state, with top-paying states including Washington, D.C., and California, where salaries can exceed $47,000 annually.
Career Advancement: Medical assistants can advance their careers by obtaining further education, certifications, or transitioning into related healthcare roles such as nursing, health information technology, or healthcare administration.

FAQ

What does a medical assistant do? Medical assistants perform a mix of administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. Their duties include scheduling patient appointments, taking vital signs, recording medical histories, and assisting doctors and surgeons during procedures.
How much do medical assistants make? The average annual salary for medical assistants is $37,190. This can vary based on factors such as location, experience, education, and the type of healthcare facility. Top-paying states offer salaries exceeding $47,000 annually.
What education is required to become a medical assistant? The minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED. Many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education, such as a diploma, certificate, or associate degree in medical assisting. Additional certifications can further enhance job prospects.
What certifications are beneficial for medical assistants? Certifications such as Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), and Nationally Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) can improve job prospects and salary potential.
Can medical assistants specialize in specific fields? Yes, medical assistants can specialize in fields such as gynecology, dermatology, podiatry, cardiology, or ophthalmology. Specializing can lead to higher salaries and more focused career opportunities.
What are the highest-paying states for medical assistants? The highest-paying states for medical assistants include Washington, D.C., California, Alaska, and Minnesota. Salaries in these states can exceed $47,000 annually.
What career advancement opportunities are available for medical assistants? Medical assistants can advance their careers by pursuing additional education and certifications. They can transition into roles such as medical records specialist, staff nurse, registered nurse supervisor, or clinical services manager. Continuing education in fields like healthcare administration can also open up higher-paying roles.
Is being a medical assistant worth it? Yes, being a medical assistant can be worth it due to the high demand, job stability, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. It also offers a relatively quick entry into the healthcare field compared to other professions requiring longer educational commitments.
What are the pros and cons of being a medical assistant? Pros include job stability, diverse responsibilities, fulfilling patient interactions, and accessible entry-level education. Cons include a demanding work environment, physical and emotional challenges, limited advancement opportunities without further education, and exposure to illnesses.
How can I advance my career as a medical assistant? Advancing your career can involve pursuing further education, obtaining certifications, relocating to higher-paying states, and considering roles in different industries or healthcare settings. Transitioning into related fields like nursing or healthcare administration can also provide career growth opportunities.