Medical assistants in the United States earn a median annual salary of about $44,200 as of 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
. This equates to an average hourly wage of approximately $21. The salary range varies, with the lowest 10% earning around $35,020 annually and the highest 10% making more than $57,830 per year
. Salaries also differ by state and workplace setting. For example, medical assistants in California have a median salary of about $48,050, while those in Alabama earn around $34,980 annually
. In terms of workplace, medical assistants in outpatient care centers tend to earn more (around $50,250 per year) compared to those working in doctors’ offices ($42,200 per year) or hospitals ($45,760 per year)
. Specialized medical assistants in fields such as podiatry or ophthalmology can earn higher salaries, with podiatry medical assistants making about $57,000 annually
. Factors influencing pay include location, experience, education, and specialization. Full-time medical assistants often receive benefits like healthcare, vacation, and retirement plans
. In summary:
- Median annual salary: $44,200
- Median hourly wage: ~$21
- Salary range: ~$35,000 to $58,000+ annually
- Higher pay in certain states and specialties
- Benefits common for full-time workers
