Highest Paying Medical Assistant Jobs in 2025 — Salaries by State and Experience
Updated: October 2025 | Category: Medical Assistant Careers
Introduction
The demand for medical assistants in 2025 continues to grow rapidly as healthcare systems expand across the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical assistants is projected to increase by more than 14% between 2024 and 2030 — much faster than the national average for all occupations. This growth is fueled by an aging population, technological advancements, and a growing focus on preventive care.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the highest paying medical assistant jobs in 2025, analyze salaries by state and experience level, and provide tips on how to boost your earnings in this rewarding career field.
Average Medical Assistant Salary in 2025
As of 2025, the average medical assistant salary in the U.S. is approximately $43,500 per year, or about $21 per hour. However, wages can vary significantly depending on your state, level of education, certifications, and the type of healthcare facility where you work.
Top 10 Highest Paying States for Medical Assistants in 2025
- California: $52,000 – $65,000 annually
- Alaska: $51,500 – $63,000 annually
- Washington: $50,000 – $62,000 annually
- Massachusetts: $49,500 – $60,000 annually
- Oregon: $48,000 – $58,000 annually
- New York: $47,000 – $57,500 annually
- New Jersey: $46,000 – $56,000 annually
- Connecticut: $45,500 – $55,000 annually
- Colorado: $45,000 – $54,000 annually
- Minnesota: $44,000 – $53,000 annually
Medical Assistant Salaries by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–1 year) | $17 – $20 | $34,000 – $40,000 |
| Mid-Level (2–4 years) | $21 – $24 | $42,000 – $48,000 |
| Experienced (5–9 years) | $25 – $28 | $50,000 – $56,000 |
| Senior (10+ years) | $29 – $33 | $58,000 – $66,000 |
Best-Paying Healthcare Settings for Medical Assistants
- Outpatient Care Centers: $52,000 per year
- Hospitals (State, Local, Private): $49,500 per year
- Specialty Clinics: $48,000 per year
- Physician Offices: $44,000 per year
- Chiropractic Clinics: $41,000 per year
Top Cities with the Highest Medical Assistant Salaries in 2025
- San Francisco, CA – $65,000
- Seattle, WA – $61,000
- Boston, MA – $59,000
- New York City, NY – $58,000
- Denver, CO – $55,000
How Certification Impacts Medical Assistant Pay
Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) can increase your salary potential by 10–20%. Certification demonstrates your competence and commitment to quality patient care.
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) — AAMA
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) — AMT
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) — NHA
How to Increase Your Medical Assistant Salary in 2025
- Earn certifications like CMA or CCMA
- Gain specialized skills in EHR, phlebotomy, or EKG testing
- Work in high-demand cities or states
- Negotiate salary confidently with data
- Advance to leadership roles like lead medical assistant
Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in 2025 and Beyond
The job outlook for medical assistants remains strong, with thousands of new openings each year. The growth of telehealth