Best States for Medical Assistants (Highest Paying)
Where you work changes medical assistant pay more than almost any other factor. Washington leads at $52,000 — roughly 24% above the national median of $42,000.
Top 10 highest paying states
Ranked by median annual salary for medical assistants:
- 1. Washington — $52,000 median
- 2. Alaska — $50,000 median
- 3. California — $48,000 median
- 4. Oregon — $48,000 median
- 5. Massachusetts — $46,000 median
- 6. New York — $42,000 median
- 7. Pennsylvania — $39,000 median
- 8. Texas — $38,000 median
- 9. Florida — $38,000 median
- 10. Ohio — $37,000 median
Why pay varies so much by state
Three things drive the spread: local demand, licensing rules and cost of labor. States with strict licensing and high demand tend to pay a premium because the supply of qualified workers is limited.
Metro areas inside a state can differ by another 15–25%, so treat state medians as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
Salary versus cost of living
High-paying coastal states usually carry high housing costs. A $52,000 salary in Washington can leave you with less disposable income than a mid-tier state paying $44,100.
Run the numbers on rent, state income tax and commute before you decide to relocate.
Frequently asked questions
Which state pays medical assistants the most?
Washington, with a median salary of $52,000 per year.
What is the average medical assistant salary in the US?
The national median is $42,000 per year.
See full medical assistant salary data
Compare pay by state and experience level with our medical assistant salary page or the salary calculator.