The industry's demand for skilled Medical Assistants is soaring, and so is the pay! With the need on the rise, Medical Assistants are reaping the benefits of their expertise. From administrative tasks to clinical support, their flexible role in this position holds competitive salaries.

Medical Assistants (MA) have a bright future in terms of career prospects and salaries. While it may vary depending on certain factors, the average salary ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 annually. Specialized certifications can boost your earning potential more. With some experience, MAs command salaries upwards of $55,000 or more. This career has all the room for enticement!

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Average MA Salary in the U.S.

The job outlook for MAs is promising, which also results in good salaries. However, the pay might depend on different aspects. These factors include your location, experience, certification, etc. In May 2022, the mean annual wage for MAs was $40,700 ($19.57/ hr). Take a look at the table below for the percentile wage estimates for MAs:

• 10% Percentile:

  • Hourly Wage: $14.61

  • Annual Wage: $30,390

• 25% Percentile:

  • Hourly Wage: $16.99

  • Annual Wage: $35,330

• 50% Percentile (Median):

  • Hourly Wage: $18.40

  • Annual Wage: $38,270

• 75% Percentile:

  • Hourly Wage: $21.81

  • Annual Wage: $45,360

• 90% Percentile:

  • Hourly Wage: $24.86

  • Annual Wage: $51,710

Locations can play a significant role in determining earning potential. The salary of MAs can vary depending on the state in which they practice. If you're aiming for a profitable path in this field, consider the location you choose to work. Let’s dive into the top-paying states for MAs as of May 2022, according to BLS:

• Washington:‍

  • Employment: 18,300

  • Employment per thousand jobs: 5.37

  • Location quotient: 1.06

  • Hourly mean wage: $24.21

  • Annual mean wage: $50,350

• District of Columbia:

  • Employment: 1,910

  • Employment per thousand jobs: 2.76

  • Location quotient: 0.54

  • Hourly mean wage: $24.05

  • Annual mean wage: $50,020

• Alaska:

  • Employment: 1,920

  • Employment per thousand jobs: 6.27

  • Location quotient: 1.23

  • Hourly mean wage: $23.75

  • Annual mean wage: $49,400

• California:

  • Employment: 111,470

  • Employment per thousand jobs: 6.32

  • Location quotient: 1.24

  • Hourly mean wage: $23.01

  • Annual mean wage: $47,850

• Minnesota:

  • Employment: 12,120

  • Employment per thousand jobs: 4.29

  • Location quotient: 0.84

  • Hourly mean wage: $22.76

  • Annual mean wage: $47,330

Factors Influencing Salary Variations

Aside from location, other factors come into play, shaping the pay prospects for MAs. Understanding these components is essential to maximize your earning potential. Let's get into these considerations that shape the salary landscape in this career.

A. Geographical Location. Cost of living, demand for MAs, and local healthcare market conditions can impact salary levels.

B. Level of Experience. Typically, more experienced MAs may earn higher salaries than those who are just starting their careers.

C. Education and Certification. MAs with additional education (associate's degree or specialized certifications) may command higher salaries. Certification from recognized organizations can demonstrate expertise and enhance earning potential.

D. Specialty or Subspecialty. MAs who work in specialized areas may receive higher salaries due to the additional knowledge and skills required in these fields. These areas include dermatology, pediatrics, and cardiology.

E. Employment Setting. MAs working in hospitals or specialty clinics may earn higher salaries compared to those in smaller physician offices or outpatient centers.

F. Industry and Sector. MAs working in certain industries may receive higher salaries compared to those working in primary care or general practice settings. Here are the top-paying industries for MAs:

• Insurance Carriers:

  • Employment: 80

  • Percent of industry employment: 0.01

  • Hourly mean wage: $24.72

  • Annual mean wage: $51,410

• Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services:

  • Employment: 5,190

  • Percent of industry employment: 0.30

  • Hourly mean wage: $24.59

  • Annual mean wage: $51,150

• Junior Colleges:

  • Employment: 120

  • Percent of industry employment: 0.02

  • Hourly mean wage: $24.36

  • Annual mean wage: $50,680

• Scientific Research and Development Services:

  • Employment: 810

  • Percent of industry employment: 0.09

  • Hourly mean wage: $24.01

  • Annual mean wage: $49,930

• Agencies, Brokerages, and Other Insurance Related Activities:

  • Employment: 140

  • Percent of industry employment: 0.01

  • Hourly mean wage: $23.70

  • Annual mean wage: $49,300

‍‍G. Shift Differentials and Overtime. Some MAs may have the opportunity to work night shifts, weekends, or holidays. This can come with additional pay differentials or overtime compensation, increasing their overall salary.

H. Employer Size and Benefits. Larger organizations may offer higher salaries, better benefits, and additional perks compared to smaller practices or clinics.

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Experience and Education Impact on MA Salaries

Experience and education play important roles in setting candidates apart from the competition. Employers value the combination of practical skills through experience and the knowledge acquired through education. Obtaining certifications might increase your chances of landing a job or a salary raise–even if they are not required. If you want to advance your career as an MA, there are several general certifications to consider:

• Certified Medical Assistant

• Registered Medical Assistant

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant

• Nationally Certified Medical Assistant

These certifications help target specific industries to work settings. The valuable skills MAs possess let them have autonomy in the healthcare field. Once you get your hands on that certification, you’ll definitely reap more benefits from the career’s promising job outlook.

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Final Thoughts

The salary outlook for MAs is undeniably promising. This promising salary reflects the indispensable role they play, making it an appealing career choice. Here at Dreambound, we get you prepped for that career satisfaction by providing you with only the best education. As the healthcare industry evolves, the promising salary of MAs serves as proof of their essential contribution and the bright future that lies ahead.