Medical Assistant Salary in 2025: How Much MAs Really Earn State-by-State

Why Medical Assistant Salary Is Increasing in 2025

The demand for Medical Assistants has never been higher. With clinics, urgent cares, and specialty practices expanding, employers are competing for qualified and certified Medical Assistants — which is driving salary growth nationwide.

The BLS reports a faster-than-average job growth rate, and certified Clinical Medical Assistants (CCMAs) continue to earn more than non-certified staff.

Average Medical Assistant Salary in the U.S. (Updated Data)

In 2025, the average Medical Assistant salary ranges from $38,000 to $52,000 per year, depending on:

• Location

• Certification

• Externship experience

• Clinical skills (EKG, phlebotomy, vitals, triage)

Hourly pay typically ranges between $18–$26 per hour, with opportunities for overtime.

Medical Assistant Salary by State (Highest to Lowest)

Here is a general breakdown of earning potential across different regions:

Highest-Paying States

• California — $50,000–$58,000

• Washington — $48,000–$55,000

• Massachusetts — $47,000–$53,000

• New York — $46,000–$52,000

• Connecticut — $45,000–$51,000

Above Average Pay

• Texas — $42,000–$48,000

• Florida — $40,000–$46,000

• Georgia — $41,000–$47,000

• Illinois — $43,000–$48,000

National Average States

Most states fall between $38,000–$46,000, with stronger earnings in cities and metro areas.

Do Certified Medical Assistants Earn More?

Absolutely. Employers consistently pay higher wages to NHA-certified Clinical Medical Assistants (CCMA).

Average salary difference:

Status	Average Salary
Certified MA (CCMA)	$45,000–$52,000
Non-Certified MA	$34,000–$40,000

Certification increases earning potential because employers trust the standardized training, clinical competency, and exam rigor.

Highest-Paying Medical Assistant Job Settings

Medical Assistants earn more in certain departments and specialty settings:

• Dermatology

• Cardiology

• Orthopedics

• Ophthalmology

• OB/GYN

• Urgent Care

• Surgery Centers

  
  

Specialty MAs can earn $2–$8 more per hour than general clinic MAs.

How to Increase Your Salary as a Medical Assistant

You can boost your income by:

✔ Getting certified (NHA CCMA)

✔ Completing a reputable externship

✔ Adding clinical skills (EKG, phlebotomy, injections)

✔ Gaining experience in specialty clinics

✔ Taking continuing education courses

✔ Building strong patient-care communication skills

Start Your Medical Assistant Career With One of the Most Affordable Accredited Programs

If you want to enter the field quickly and affordably, Clinical Skills Institute offers a complete NHA-accredited training program:

• 100% online

• Only $900 total tuition

• Includes NHA exam fee + books + practice tests

• Externship support

• Job support

  
  

Students can finish in just 3 months and begin earning competitive MA salaries immediately.