In April of 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that pay for medical assistants increased, which is great news for those looking to become medical assistants. The BLS reported that in 2023, medical assistants made an average of $43,350, with the top 10 percent making $56,480 or more.
The recently updated BLS report also released relevant information, such as top-paying states and industries. Read on for the most up-to-date information regarding medical assisting.
Top-Paying States for Medical Assistants
- Washington – $53,780
- Alaska – $52,530
- California – $50,900
- Minnesota – $49,740
There is an increased demand for medical assistants in states that offer higher pay. Medical assistants that make more money may also have specific certifications.
States with the Most Medical Assistants
- California – 110,280 Medical Assistants
- Texas – 66,720 Medical Assistants
- Florida – 55,110 Medical Assistants
- New York – 39,860 Medical Assistants
- Michigan – 26,370 Medical Assistants
These states tend to have a greater concentration of medical assistants due to their densely populated areas. With a larger population comes a greater need for medical care and healthcare workers.
Top-Paying Industries for Medical Assistants
- Scientific Research and Development – $55,130
- Junior Colleges – $53,890
- Grantmaking and Giving Services – $50,990
- Outpatient Care Centers – $50,250
- Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services – $49,090
The above industries paying medical assistants the most tend to involve more specialized skills, such as those that may be required for research purposes, or outpatient care.
Metropolitan Areas with the Highest Employment Levels for Medical Assistants in 2023
- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA – 45,350 Medical Assistants
- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA – 34,330 Medical Assistants
- Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX – 17,280 Medical Assistants
- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI – 16,210 Medical Assistants
- Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ – 15,850 Medical Assistants
Similarly to states that have the most medical assistants, city areas with these larger populations require more healthcare services, and a greater number of facilities and professionals to provide them.
Are Medical Assistants in Demand?
Yes. Between now and 2032, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for medical assistants will increase 14 percent. This translates to an added 114,600 job openings for medical assistants each year over the next decade. This industry demand indicates a greater likelihood of stability throughout one’s medical assisting career.
Interested in becoming a medical assistant? We’re partnered with excellent schools across the country offering many medical assisting programs. Find a medical assistant program near you today!
