The 25 Best Paying Cities for Medical Assistants in 2023

These U.S. Cities Offer Medical Assistants the Highest Salaries Based on Cost of Living

As a Medical Assistant, you play a key role in the healthcare industry—fulfilling the important job of organizing, tracking, and scheduling tasks for nurses and physicians to help them perform their jobs to the best of their abilities (and with lesser distractions).

Medical Assisting is also a great career choice for anyone looking for job security within the healthcare industry. Not only is it in high demand, but the average pay for a Medical Assistant is substantial compared to the requisite time and educational requirements to become one.

How Much Do Medical Assistants Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical Assistants earn an average salary* of $38,190 (or an average hourly wage of $18.36).

The average wage for a Medical Assistant (MA) can vary depending on the industry in which they decide to practice or whether certification is earned.

For example, MAs working in outpatient care centers make an average salary* of $44,680. In contrast, those working for agencies and insurance brokerages can earn an average salary* of $52,970. Medical Assistant pay can also vary by geography. Below are the top 5 states where Medical Assistants get paid the most:

1. Washington
   • Average Hourly Wage: $22.75
   • Average Annual Salary: $47,320
2. District of Columbia:
   • Average Hourly Wage: $22.45
   • Average Annual Salary: $46,690
3. Alaska:
   • Average Hourly Wage: $22.30
   • Average Annual Salary: $46,390
4. California:
   • Average Hourly Wage: $21.53
   • Average Annual Salary: $44,780
5. Massachusetts:
   • Average Hourly Wage: $21.25
   • Average Annual Salary: $44,200

More to Medical Assistant Pay Than Meets the Eye

Information on medical assistant salaries is abundant, but salary* numbers alone don’t always convey the actual value of those earnings.

For this article, we will start with the salary* but then dig deeper into how far those dollars go in each city from our list. For example, the cost of renting an apartment in San Francisco differs from renting an apartment in Little Rock. And plenty of other living expenses can drastically vary from one place to the next.

Below, we’ve ranked the best-paying cities according to the average salary*, and by how far your salary* can go within each city.

Methodology

We adjusted Medical Assistant salaries across hundreds of cities in the U.S. based on the cost of living index (COLI) in each region.

The average cost of living index (COLI) for all the cities in our study was about 169. So, if a city has a COLI of 135, living there is about 20% less expensive than in the average city. Based on the COLI for each city, we adjusted their annual wage to account for the difference in the cost of living.

The Top-Paying Cities for Medical Assistants

Here are the 25 best-paying cities for Medical Assisting in 2023 based on their cost of living index.

1. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is at the top of our list of best-paying cities for Medical Assistants. Cedar Rapids is the second-largest city in Iowa. It is known as the “City of Five Seasons,” or the so-called “fifth season,” which is time to enjoy the other four. A flourishing center for arts and culture in Eastern Iowa, the city is home to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the Paramount Theatre, Orchestra Iowa, and the Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance.

Agriculture remains a staple of the Cedar Rapids economy, which continues to be one of the largest cities in the world for corn and grain processing. It is also home to St Luke’s Hospital, Collins Aerospace, and Transamerica.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Cedar Rapids, IA?

• Medical Assistants in Cedar Rapids make an average salary of $39,320.
• For Medical Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $47,580.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 115
• The cost of living in Cedar Rapids is 32% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for a Medical Assistant in Cedar Rapids increases to $51,875.

2. Modesto, California

Modesto (Spanish for “modest”) sits in Central Valley between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park. “Star Wars” creator George Lucas was born here, as well as the music genre “rockabilly,” and the city celebrates its international contributions to architecture once a year.

Agriculture and wine are top industries for the city, with top employers including local wineries, Memorial Medical Center, and Doctors Medical Center.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Modesto, CA?

• Medical Assistants in Modesto make an average salary of $43,630.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $61,330.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 141
• The cost of living in Modesto is 17% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $50,846.

3. Tacoma, Washington

About 30 miles southwest of Seattle, Tacoma is the third largest city in Washington, with nearly 220,000 residents. From Tacoma, you can spot Mount Rainier, which the town is named after (from the original name Takhoma). You’ll find more than 50 parks and open spaces here, many accessible along the scenic Five-Mile Drive, like Owen Beach and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

Among the city’s top 10 employers are MultiCare Health System, CHI Franciscan Health, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. With many hospitals in the area, Tacoma is an excellent place for Medical Assistants to work and live.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Tacoma, WA?

• Medical Assistants in Tacoma make an average salary of $50,820.
• For those in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $60,510.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 184
• The cost of living in Tacoma is 9% more expensivethan the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its cost of living lowers a Medical Assistant’s pay to $46,290.

4. Des Moines, Iowa

A six-county metropolitan area surrounds Iowa’s capital city of nearly 700,000 residents. Des Moines is known for its insurance industry, with many large companies making their headquarters here, including Principal Financial Group, Nationwide/Allied Insurance, and Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Top healthcare employers in Des Moines include UnityPoint Health and Mercy Medical Center. Together they employ more than 12,000 workers. This city has a great culture and theater atmosphere, with Broadway shows, the Des Moines Metro Opera, Des Moines Symphony, and an outdoor concert venue on the Des Moines River, Simon Estes Amphitheater.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Des Moines, IA?

• Medical Assistants in Des Moines make an average salary of $40,600.
• For some Medical Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,620.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 146
• The cost of living in Des Moines is 14% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for a Medical Assistant in Des Moines increases to $46,113.

5. Madison, Wisconsin

The capital city of Wisconsin, named after founding father James Madison, is built on an isthmus surrounding four lakes: Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, Lake Kegonsa, and Lake Waubesa. The city has more parks and playgrounds per capita than any of the 100 largest U.S. cities. Madison is also known for its technology sector and is HQ for companies like American Family Insurance, Epic Systems, Lands’ End, and American Girl.

U.S. News reports that the best hospitals in the Madison area include UW Health University Hospital, SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital-Madison, and American Family Children’s Hospital. If you’re a Medical Assistant looking for a vibrant city with a strong network of hospitals and healthcare facilities, Madison should rank high on your list.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Madison, WI?

• Medical Assistants in Madison make an average salary of $42,080.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,480.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 153
• The cost of living in Madison is 9% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $46,051.

6. Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska and is the anchor of the eight-county, bi-state Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. According to USA Today, Omaha ranks #8 among the nation’s cities in both per-capita Fortune 500 companies and per-capita billionaires.

With a population of around 468,000 people, CHI Health is the #2 employer in the city, employing over 7,500 people. On top of that, in 2013, Forbes added Omaha to its list of the Best Places for Business and Careers.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Omaha, NE?

• Medical Assistants in Omaha make an average salary of $38,310.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,160.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 135
• The cost of living in Omaha is 20% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for a Medical Assistant in Omaha is increased to $46,007.

7. Sacramento, California

Sacramento is California’s capital city and has an estimated population of 501,334. The city serves as the state’s political center and a hub for lobbying and think tanks. Sacramento is also the fastest-growing city in California, which is remarkable given the state’s size. UC Davis is a significant employer in the city, with over 7,700 employees.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Sacramento, CA?

• Medical Assistants in Sacramento make an average salary of $51,530.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $76,220.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI):188
• The cost of living in Sacramento is 11% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its cost of living lowers a Medical Assistant’s pay to $45,717.

8. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Located on Lake Michigan, Green Bay makes up for its chilly climate with top-notch sports programs (Green Bay Packers), an impressive live theater scene, yearly food festivals, and free Wi-Fi city-wide. Top employers for the area include Humana, Bellin Health, Georgia-Pacific, and American Foods Group.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Green Bay, WI?

• Medical Assistants in Green Bay make an average salary of $38,580.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $47,470.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 144
• The cost of living in Green Bay is 15% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $44,276.

9. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is the second biggest city in Tennessee, located on the Mississippi river. The city is known to be the birthplace of some of America’s most significant music genres, such as soul and blues. Memphis is one of the most historical and cultural cities in the southern United States.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Memphis, TN?

• Medical Assistants in Memphis make an average salary of $35,980.
• For MAs in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $46,780.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 130
• The cost of living in Memphis is 23% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $44,274.

10. Lawrence, Kansas

Excellent schools, a thriving arts scene, and a strong community are just a few of the things that make Lawrence a prime Midwest destination. Less than an hour from the nightlife, professional sports, and barbeque of Kansas City, Lawrence offers the benefits of small-town life without sacrificing the amenities of a big city. Top employers include education, industrial, health, and agriculture.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Lawrence, KS?

• Medical Assistants in Lawrence make an average salary of $33,430.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $38,130.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 116
• The cost of living in Lawrence is 31% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $43,906.

11. Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage is the largest and most populous city in Alaska, located on a peninsula in the south-central portion of Alaska. Anchorage has won the All-America City Award four times and is known for being the most tax-friendly city in the United States.

Anchorage is also known for its exceptional wildlife population, and the tourism industry drives the city’s economy. If you’re looking for a city that can satisfy your passion for both health care and adventure, Anchorage is an excellent option for you!

How much do Medical Assistants make in Anchorage, AK?

• Medical Assistants in Anchorage make an average salary of $45,500, the second highest average income city in our study.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $59,580.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 176
• The cost of living in Anchorage is 4% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its cost of living lowers a Medical Assistant’s pay to $43,599.

12. Riverside, California

Riverside is a metropolis within the Greater Los Angeles area, which means residents have nearby access to the world-famous attractions of LA, Hollywood, and the famous California coastline. Within Riverside is an economy built by industry and manufacturing, a frequent location for Hollywood film shoots, and a wide variety of museums and festivals. Top employers include government, education, manufacturing, and health.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Riverside, CA?

• Medical Assistants in Riverside make an average salary of $39,120.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $53,670.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 150
• The cost of living in Riverside is 11% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $43,506.

13. Santa Fe, New Mexico

One of the largest cities in New Mexico, Sante Fe, was originally called Ogha Po’oge by its indigenous inhabitants (a term that means “White Shell Water Place”). Today, Sante Fe still proudly wears its Spanish and indigenous cultural roots in everything from design and arts to dining and entertainment. Tourism is a primary element of the Sante Fe economy, helped by a strong network of parks and trails for outdoor enjoyment.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Santa Fe, NM?

• Medical Assistants in Santa Fe make an average salary of $39,570.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,030.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI):153
• The cost of living in Santa Fe is 9% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay from $31,240 to $43,304.

14. Buffalo, New York

Buffalo sits at the head of the Niagara River near Niagara Falls. These two cities make up the greater metropolitan area with a population of more than 1 million. Cultural attractions include the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Museum of Science, and the Buffalo Bills NFL team.

Healthcare is one of Buffalo’s leading industries, with nine hospitals, including Oishei Children’s Hospital, Mercy Hospital, and Sisters of Charity Hospital. It’s also home to the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Comprehensive Cancer Center. It’s no surprise that Buffalo made our list of top-paying cities for Medical Assistants.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Buffalo, NY?

• Medical Assistants in Buffalo make an average salary of $38,100.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,160.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 146
• The cost of living in Buffalo is 14% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $43,274.

15. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

In 2016, Forbes ranked Harrisburg as the second-best place in the U.S. to raise a family. Several annual events come to the city, including the Pennsylvania Farm Show and the Great American Outdoor Show. It’s also known for the Riverfront Park Concert Series and an incredible Independence Day Celebration with fireworks and live music.

This historic city, the state capital of Pennsylvania, is known to be strong in the healthcare sector and the technology and biotech industries. The top 10 employers of the city include Penn State Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Pinnacle, Harrisburg Hospital, and Polyclinic Medical Center—making it a great home for Medical Assistants.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Harrisburg, PA?

• Medical Assistants in Harrisburg make an average salary of $36,120.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $45,370.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 138
• The cost of living in Harrisburg is 18% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $42,735.

16. Provo, Utah

Provo, a college town and home of Brigham Young University (BYU), has a lot of good things going for it. It’s been named first for community optimism (2012), second for the Best Places for Businesses and Careers (2013), and first for health and well-being (2014). The city is also known for being a technology center. Several successful tech startups have originated in Utah’s version of Silicon Valley—called Silicon Slopes.

Among the top 10 employers in Provo are BYU and tech giants Vivint and Qualtrics. Also on the list are two healthcare organizations, Utah Valley Regional Medical center and Revere Health. Together they employ as many as 6,000, making Provo an excellent place for Medical Assistants to work and live.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Provo, UT?

• Medical Assistants in Provo make an average salary of $34,830.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $38,220.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 131
• The cost of living in Provo is 22% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $42,652.

17. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene is promoted as a city passionate in all its pursuits. It’s known as TrackTown USA for being a runner’s paradise and Silicon Shire for its support of the tech industry. Home of the Oregon Ducks, it’s also a city of independent thinkers, art lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts, surrounded by fern forests and inviting mountain trails.

You may not know that PeaceHealth Medical Group is the largest employer in the state, beating out the University of Oregon. With more than 5,800 employees in the area, this group operates several hospitals and clinics. Sacred Heart Medical Center University District is also located in Eugene. With such a large number of healthcare workers, it’s no surprise Eugene makes our list.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Eugene, OR?

• Medical Assistants in Eugene make an average salary of $42,740.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,160.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 170
• The cost of living in Eugene is 1% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $42,472.

18. Providence, Rhode Island

Providence is an unforgettable New England coastal town that entails everything you think it would. Providence is a town of incredible seafood, nautical history, and that invigorating scent of chilly sea breeze. Plus, New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia are easy drives away from Providence. In fact, because of its proximity to so many places, most residents can explore their neighboring towns and return home within the same day.

As for Providence itself, the historic architecture and stonework that fills the city are remarkable. Its great schools and nearby professional sports teams all draw more people to the area.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Providence, RI?

• Medical Assistants in Providence make an average salary of $39,570.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,490.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 157
• The cost of living in Providence is 7% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $42,367.

19. Wilmington, Delaware

The largest city in Delaware, Wilmington, is home to about 70,000 residents. Top employers include the State of Delaware, ChristianaCare, Amazon, and DuPont Company. But its economy has greatly flourished due to business-friendly financial laws that have made it a national financial center for the credit card industry.

ChristianaCare operates Wilmington Hospital, which also acts as the company’s corporate headquarters. The hospital is part of a campus of healthcare facilities that support the Eugene community, including the Center for Comprehensive Behavioral Health and Swank Memory Care Center—providing specialized care for patients with memory disorders. With a low cost of living, your Medical Assistant salary* can go further here.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Wilmington, DE?

• Medical Assistants in Wilmington make an average salary of $39,450.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $47,500.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 157
• The cost of living in Wilmington is 7% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $42,239.

20. Spokane, Washington

In eastern Washington, along the Spokane River and the Selkirk Mountains, lies the city of Spokane. Known for its unique Romanesque architecture, rich indigenous history, and beautiful Northern Rockies ecology, Spokane is a quickly growing city with plenty to offer. This city was built by the discovery of valuable minerals, so mining continues to be a vital part of the local economy, as well as shopping and commerce. Top employers include Washington University, Providence Sacred Heart Medical, and Fairchild Airforce Base.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Spokane, WA?

• Medical Assistants in Spokane make an average salary of $41,760.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,170.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 169
• The cost of living in Spokane is the same as the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its cost of living lowers a Medical Assistant’s pay to$41,760.

21. Burlington, Vermont

Picturesque fountains and a brick-paved pedestrian mall, all framed by historic buildings and hopping opportunities, make for an inviting downtown Burlington. Vermont’s largest city, with an economy built around education, health services, and transportation, is less than 50 miles from Canada’s border. Its largest employers are the University of Vermont Medical Center, the University of Vermont, and General Electric.

Burlington is home to Vermont’s largest hospital, UVM Medical Center. Another interesting fact? In 2008, the U.S. CDC reported that Burlington had the most significant proportion of people who say they are in good or great health, at 92 percent.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Burlington, VT?

• Medical Assistants in Burlington make an average salary of $39,640.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $47,780.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 160
• The cost of living in Burlington is 5% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $41,738.

22. Newark, New Jersey

Newark is New Jersey’s largest city, a primary air, rail, and shipping hub, with a population of more than 300,000. Many of its jobs are in the insurance, finance, import-export, and healthcare sectors. Major employers include Prudential Financial, Mutual Benefit Life, and American Insurance Company. Nearly 50,000 students attend universities or medical schools in the city.

University Hospital, one of five city hospitals, is a teaching hospital associated with Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences. Others include Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Saint Michael’s Medical Center. Medical Assistants in Newark can make as much as $48,000 (90th percentile).

How much do Medical Assistants make in Newark, NJ?

• Medical Assistants in Newark make an average salary of $42,390.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,510.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 173
• The cost of living in Newark is 2% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $41,372.

23. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky, with an estimated population of 602,000 residents. The city is home to dozens of companies and organizations across various industries. However, the base of the city’s economy since its establishment has been the shipping and cargo industries. One of the primary reasons Louisville made it into our list is its comparably lower cost of living.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Louisville, KY?

• Medical Assistants in Louisville make an average salary of $35,250.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $44,420.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 140
• The cost of living in Louisville is 17% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $41,289.

24. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana and the most populous city in Indiana, with an estimated population of about 877,000. The city is also home to two major league sports clubs, the Indiana Pacers, and the Indianapolis Colts.

Indianapolis is the 27^th largest economic region in the U.S., with health care being one of its base sectors. As of 2016, Eli Lilly and Company was the largest private employer in the city, with more than 11,000 employees.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Indianapolis, IN?

• Medical Assistants in Indianapolis make an average salary of $38,720.
• For Medical Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,160.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 158
• The cost of living in Indianapolis is 6% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $41,228.

25. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico, with an estimated population of about 560,000. It is the commercial, industrial, and transportation center for New Mexico’s timber, livestock, and farming areas. Also, Albuquerque is renowned for its health resorts and several hospitals, which is great news for Medical Assistants.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Albuquerque, NM?

• Medical Assistants in Albuquerque make an average salary of $34,610.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $44,610.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 137
• The cost of living in Albuquerque is 19% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $41,154.

Medical Assistant Career

Are you ready to start your career as a Medical Assistant?

Earning your diploma or associate’s degree in medical assisting can help you quickly enter the healthcare field while also providing you with a satisfying career. Plus, as a MA, you’ll have a solid foundation if you deice to pursue a career as a Nurse, MSN, or even a Doctor.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards becoming a Medical Assistant, you can earn your MA diploma in as little as nine months at Eagle Gate College.

Click here to learn more about our Medical Assisting program.