Medical Assistant Highest Salary

The average medical assistant salary in the United States is $33,000, according to a recent survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, this figure varies widely depending on location and experience level.

The highest-paid medical assistants work in California, where they earn an average of $51,000 per year. In Alaska and Hawaii, however, medical assistants make considerably less at $25,000 and $24,000 annually respectively.

Medical assistants with more experience can expect to earn higher wages. The top 10% of employees in this field make more than $57,000 per year on average while those who have been working for less than five years make closer to $30,000 annually.

Medical Assistant Highest Salary

These past few months, we have seen just how vital healthcare workers are for the good of society. For this reason, we have been paying special attention to the various careers and job opportunities that lay ahead for aspiring nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers who are seeking more information about these noble professions. Today’s article focuses on the earning potential of one of the most essential roles in healthcare, the Medical Assistant (MA).

Medical Assisting is one of the most popular and fastest-growing jobs in healthcare. People who enter this profession care deeply about supporting their patients and their medical teams. If you’re interested in learning more about this profession, we encourage you to read our comprehensive guide on how to become a Medical Assistant.

As an aspiring Medical Assistant, serving others should not prevent you from planning ahead or researching the job benefits and average salaries for this career path. To help you in your research, this article will cover the best paying cities for Medical Assistants across the U.S.

Before we delve into the top paying cities, however, let’s begin with an overview of the top paying states for Medical Assistants as well as the average Medical Assistant salary nationwide.

Medical Assistant Salary

How Much Do Medical Assistants Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Medical Assistants earn an average salary of about $36,000 per year, and an average hourly wage of about $17.00 per hour.

These rates can vary depending on your employer, experience, and location. For instance, the top 10 percent of MAs can earn more than $48,720, while the lowest 10 percent earn an average salary of around $26,000.

Here’s a closer look at employment and wages for Medical Assistants by industry and by state.

Highest Paying Industries for Medical Assistants

Industry	Average Hourly Pay	Average Annual Salary
Medical & Diagnostic Laboratories	$19.69	$40,960
Outpatient Care Centers	$18.84	$39,190
Hospitals	$17.88	$37,190
Offices of physicians	$17.06	$35,490
Offices of chiropractors	$15.65	$32,540

Highest Paying States for Medical Assistants

A Medical Assistant’s pay often varies by location. For instance, here are the top five paying states for Medical Assistants, along with the average salary and hourly wage for each location:

1. Alaska:
   • Average Salary: $45,630
   • Average Hourly Pay: $21.94
2. Washington D.C.:
   • Average Salary: $44,530
   • Average Hourly Pay: $21.41
3. Washington:
   • Average Salary: $43,760
   • Average Hourly Pay: $21.04
4. Massachusetts:
   • Average Salary: $41,780
   • Average Hourly Pay: $20.09
5. Minnesota:
   • Average Salary: $41,710
   • Average Hourly Pay: $20.05

More to a Medical Assistant’s Salary Than You Might Think

Methodology

We pulled the cost-of-living index (COLI) values for each city in our study from Expatistan. Average Medical Assisting salaries and other statistics were taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The average cost-of-living index (COLI) for all the U.S. cities we compared was about 162. So, if a city had a COLI of 120, then it was 26% cheaper to live there than the average city. Based on the COLI for each city, we adjusted their annual wage to account for the difference in cost of living.

Based on each city’s cost-of-living index, Medical Assisting salaries were increased or reduced proportionately to better measure overall compensation and quality-of-life in each respective city.

The Highest Paying Cities for Medical Assistants

Here you’ll find the 20 best cities for Medical Assistants in 2022 based on their cost-of-living index, starting with the highest paying city.

1. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids takes our number-one spot! It’s one of the largest cities in Iowa and the county seat of Linn County. Not only is Cedar Rapids an economic hub of the state, but it also features destinations like the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, the Paramount Theatre, and the Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance.

For five years in a row, Cedar Rapids has even ranked as the #1 best place in America for children! This might be due to a low crime rate and great school system. Recently, they were recognized as the #2 most recession-resistant city, the most caring city in Iowa, and #11 in the top American cities to live in after the pandemic.

When it comes to healthcare, Cedar Rapids is home to leaders like Mercy Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. St. Luke’s emergency department serves as the area’s only Level III Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In addition, Mercy has ranked as the best hospital in Iowa or one of the top three.

There are various reasons to choose Cedar Rapids for your Medical Assisting career. In addition to its prominent healthcare system, Medical Assistants in this city earn close to $40,000 on average. The top-earning MAs can even receive salaries as high as $48,830 or more. It’s no wonder that Cedar Rapids is number one on our list.

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

• Medical Assistants in Cedar Rapids make an average salary of $38,030.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,830 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 120
• The cost of living in Cedar Rapids is 26% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its cost of living raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $51,371.

2. Lincoln, Nebraska

Next on our list is the capital of Nebraska. Lincoln is one of the most populous cities in the state. It’s known for many tourist attractions, including the Historic Haymarket District, Sunken Gardens, Museum of American Speed, Pioneers Park Nature Center, Sheldon Museum of Art, and Lincoln Children’s Zoo.

Lincoln has been called the economic and cultural anchor of a bigger metropolitan area in the southeastern part of the state, which is referred to as the Lincoln Metropolitan and Lincoln-Beatrice Combined Statistical Areas. When it comes to healthcare, Bryan Health is one of the largest employers in Lincoln. It consists of two major hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities throughout the city.

In fact, healthcare and medical jobs account for a sizeable portion of Lincoln’s employment: “As of 2009, full-time healthcare employees in the city included 9,010 healthcare practitioners in technical occupations, 4,610 workers in healthcare support positions, 780 licensed and vocational nurses, and 150 medical and clinical laboratory technicians.”

How much do Medical Assistants make in Lincoln, NE?

• Medical Assistants in Lincoln make an average salary of $36,540.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,530 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 128
• The cost of living in Lincoln is 21% 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 $46,274.

3. Greensboro, North Carolina

Greensboro, North Carolina is a hotspot for commuters. In fact, three major interstate highways in North Carolina were designed to intersect at this city: Interstate 40, Interstate 85, and Interstate 73.

In addition to its convenient location, this populous city is known for various attractions. Some popular ones include the Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe water park, the Greensboro Science Center, the International Civil Rights Museum, and the Greensboro Coliseum Complex.

Education and health services are among the top industries in Greensboro. The city also offers a cost of living that is significantly cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study. Because of this, a Medical Assistant’s (adjusted) pay can reach over $46,000 per year. This makes Greensboro quite a notable destination for Medical Assistants.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Greensboro, NC?

• Medical Assistants in Greensboro make an average salary of $34,350.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $42,920 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 121
• The cost of living in Greensboro is 25% 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 $46,017.

4. Fargo, North Dakota

Fargo is a cultural, retail, healthcare, educational, and industrial center for eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. The largest employers in the city include Sanford Health and Essentia Health. Did we mention that Forbes ranked it as the best small city in the nation to start a business or a career?

Not only can you pursue a career in this prosperous city, you can also put down roots for a sensible price. The cost of living in Fargo is 13% cheaper than the average of the other cities in our study. Typically, Medical Assistants can earn almost $40,000 per year. Plus, as the area continues to grow, so will the demand for healthcare workers.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Fargo, ND?

• Medical Assistants in Fargo make an average salary of $38,770.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,830 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 141
• The cost of living in Fargo is 13% 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 $44,571.

5. Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha, the largest city in Nebraska, sits near Iowa’s border on the Missouri River. In addition to being a stop on the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, it’s also known for its pioneer history, various museums, and cultural centers. Omaha is also on the forefront of the farm-to-fork movement and has maintained a vibrant music scene since the ‘30s.

As stated by the Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership, the largest regional employers include CHI Health, Methodist Health System, Nebraska Medical Center, and University of Nebraska Medical Center. Thanks to a cheaper cost of living, the adjusted pay for Omaha’s Medical Assistants should increase from $37,370 to $43,895.49 per year.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Omaha, NE?

• Medical Assistants in Omaha make an average salary of $37,370.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $50,110 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 138
• The cost of living in Omaha 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 $43,895.

6. Memphis, Tennessee

This famous city lies on the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee. A major site of the American civil rights movement, Memphis now hosts the National Civil Rights Museum. It’s also one of the country’s foremost commercial centers in transportation and logistics. However, it might be best known as the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. Visitors often seek out attractions like Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion, the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

This region also supports the Methodist and Baptist Memorial health systems, two of the biggest private hospitals in the country. As of 2018, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare was even the fourth largest employer in Memphis.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Memphis, TN?

• Medical Assistants in Memphis make an average salary of $34,170.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $42,800 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 127
• The cost of living in Memphis 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 $43,613.

7. Modesto, California

Next on our list of high paying cities is Modesto, an exciting and populous city in the state of California. Located in the Central Valley, Modesto provides residents with a bustling downtown as well as numerous restaurants, theaters, and festivals. Because the region is surrounded by rich farmland, agricultural production contributes to its economy and farm-to-table movement.

Modesto is also a big hub for education and healthcare. Some of the top employers include Memorial Medical Center, Modesto City Schools, Doctors Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, and Sutter Gould Medical Foundation. When it comes to cost-of-living, Forbes has recognized Modesto as one of their “Best Bang-for-the-Buck Cities.”

How much do Medical Assistants make in Modesto, CA?

• Medical Assistants in Modesto make an average salary of $37,510.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $51,360 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 140
• The cost of living in Modesto 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 $43,431.

8. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Known locally as “the Bay of Green Bay,” this city sits at the head of Green Bay (Lake Michigan), right by the mouth of Fox River. It’s only 112 miles north of Milwaukee, which is the largest city in the state. Green Bay isn’t far behind—it’s the third-largest city in Wisconsin. In addition, Green Bay is the principal city of the Green Bay Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The city is home to famous sports teams like the Green Bay Packers. It’s also the headquarters of Bellin Health and Prevea Health, regional health care providers. Four major hospitals can be found within Green Bay: Aurora Baycare Medical Center, Bellin Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center, and St. Vincent Hospital. Residents have access to several outpatient clinics and psychiatric centers as well.

A cheaper cost of living and bustling economy make Green Bay quite an attractive destination for Medical Assistants. The top-earning MAs can receive salaries of $46k or more.

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

• Medical Assistants in Green Bay make an average salary of $37,040.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $46,760 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 139
• The cost of living in Green Bay 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 $43,195.

9. Boise, Idaho

Boise is both the capital and most populous city in the Gem State. You’ll find many tree-lined trails and parks thanks to the Boise River Greenbelt. In downtown, you can visit contemporary works as well as a sculpture garden at the Boise Art Museum. History lovers can rejoice, too: Boise is home to19^th-century prison cells, gallows, and historic weaponry at the Old Idaho Penitentiary.

Some of the biggest employers in Idaho include St. Luke’s Health Systems and the Saint Alphonsus Health System. Medical Assistants can choose this destination for its jazz, theater, and indie music, not to mention its healthcare industry.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Boise, ID?

• Medical Assistants in Boise make an average salary of $35,710.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $45,270.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 135
• The cost of living in Boise 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 $42,878.

10. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin is the biggest city in the state. It’s also one of the most densely populated metropolitan areas in the Midwest. Milwaukee sits on Lake Michigan’s western shore and is known for its breweries, Harley-Davidson Museum, and Milwaukee Public Museum.

Their healthcare industry makes up 27% of the jobs. In fact, the Milwaukee Regional Medical Complex houses health organizations like the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Hospital, Blood Center of Wisconsin, the Ronald McDonald House, Curative Rehabilitation, and the Medical College of Wisconsin.

We have found that the cost of living in Milwaukee is cheaper than the average of all the other cities in our study. This allows the average Medical Assistant to enjoy a salary around $40k or higher.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Milwaukee, WI?

• Medical Assistants in Milwaukee make an average salary of $37,480.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $47,550 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 142
• The cost of living in Milwaukee is 12% 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 $42,785.

11. Spokane, Washington

Spokane is a beautiful city in Washington state. Commonly known as the “Lilac City,” Spokane lies west of the Rocky Mountain foothills and 92 miles south of the Canada-U.S. border. Many visitors are charmed by Riverfront Park, where cable cars offer views over tumbling Spokane Falls.

The city’s economy has found success in the medical and health science fields. In 2013, the top employers in Spokane were the State of Washington, Spokane Public Schools, and the Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children’s Hospital. With cost of living factored into the equation, a Spokane Medical Assistant can earn around $42k per year.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Spokane, WA?

• Medical Assistants in Spokane make an average salary of $37,530.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $49,340 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 143
• The cost of living in Spokane is 12% 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 $42,542.

12. Minneapolis – St. Paul, Minnesota

Minneapolis – St. Paul is a key metropolitan area that’s shaped by the Mississippi, Minnesota, and St. Croix rivers in east-central Minnesota. While Saint Paul is the state capital, Minneapolis is the most populous city in Minnesota. They offer unique urban cultures, a thriving economy, and a diverse population.

The “Twin Cities” have a lot to offer healthcare workers. Although cost of living is almost the same as the average of our other cities, Medical Assistants in Minneapolis – St. Paul still receive an average salary of $42,240.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Minneapolis – St. Paul, MN?

• Medical Assistants in Minneapolis – St. Paul make an average salary of $42,240.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $51,770 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 162
• The cost of living in Minneapolis – St. Paul is 0.1% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability slightly raises a Medical Assistant’s pay to $42,265.

13. Cincinnati, Ohio

As the economic and cultural center of Ohio, Cincinnati is also the fastest-growing economic power in the Midwestern United States. Cincinnati is partially known for its major sports teams and historic architecture. You can visit the Cincinnati Museum or the Over-the-Rhine district, which is well known for its 19th-century architecture. You could also plan a day trip to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

The relatively low cost of living, historical aspects of the city, and economic-powerhouse status makes Cincinnati one of the best cities for healthcare workers. Salaries for high-earning Medical Assistants can reach $44,640 or more.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Cincinnati, OH?

• Medical Assistants in Cincinnati make an average salary of $35,100.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $44,640 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 135
• The cost of living in Cincinnati 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 $42,145.

14. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky and the 29^th most-populous city in the United States. It sits on the Ohio River, right by Indiana’s border. This fun, exceptional city is known for the Kentucky Derby, several Fortune 500 companies, the University of Louisville and its Cardinals.

In Louisville, residents benefit from a cheaper cost of living. The average Medical Assistant’s pay increases to $41k thanks to the cost of living, which makes Louisville a city to watch.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Louisville, KY?

• Medical Assistants in Louisville make an average salary of $34,780.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $45,060 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 135
• 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 $41,761.

15. Anchorage, Alaska

If you love the outdoors, wildlife, glaciers, and parklands, then Anchorage may be the perfect place for you! It is the most populous city in Alaska and contains almost 40% of the state’s population. Located near the end of Cook Inlet, a peninsula, Anchorage lies in Southcentral Alaska. It provides residents with an urban core, a joint military base, various outlying communities, and nearly all of Chugach State Park.

Anchorage also lies within 9.5 hours by air travel from most of the industrialized world. Because of this, the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is often a refueling stop for international cargo flights, not to mention a major hub for FedEx’s global network. Oh, and did we mention that Anchorage has won the All-America City Award four times from the National Civic League? If that hasn’t convinced you, Kiplinger, an American publisher of business forecasts and personal finance, has named Anchorage the most tax-friendly city in the United States.

Regarding healthcare, the city is home to the largest hospital in Alaska: Providence Alaska Medical Center. This hospital is also part of Providence Health & Services in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California. It offers some of the state’s most comprehensive range of services.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Anchorage, AK?

• Medical Assistants in Anchorage make an average salary of $45,110.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $58,760.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 178
• The cost of living in Anchorage is 10% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
• The adjusted average income based on its affordability lowers a Medical Assistant’s pay to $41,080.

16. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The capital and largest city in Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (OKC) is known for its cowboy culture, capitol complex, and surrounding oil wells. The city is also ideally located. It lies along one of the main corridors into Texas and Mexico. Plus, it’s only a three-hour drive from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, an economic and cultural hub of North Texas.

In present day, the economy of OKC has grown sectors like information technology, health services, and administration. As of 2020, some of the city’s top employers even include Integris Health, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Mercy Health Center, OU Medicine, and SSM Health Care. As if that wasn’t enough, the cost of living in OKC is 20% cheaper than the average of all the other cities on our list!

How much do Medical Assistants make in Oklahoma City, OK?

• Medical Assistants in Oklahoma City make an average salary of $32,230.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $41,100 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 129
• The cost of living in Oklahoma City is 20% 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 $40,499.

17. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, also known as KC or KCMO, is the largest city in Missouri by population and area. It sits on Missouri’s western boundary with Kansas, while the downtown area lies near the Kansas and Missouri Rivers. The city itself acts as the historic core of the Kansas City metropolitan area and straddles the Kansas-Missouri state line.

In KC, you can find many neighborhoods. For instance, the River Market District occupies the north, the 18th and Vine District in the east, and the Country Club Plaza in the south. Plus, famous cultural traditions include Kansas City jazz, the Chiefs and Royals sports franchises, and well-known cuisine based on Kansas City-style barbecue, Kansas City strip steak, and craft breweries.

Some of the city’s top employers include HCA Midwest Health System, Saint Luke’s Health System, Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, and the University of Kansas Hospital. When you combine this thriving healthcare industry with a cheaper cost of living, it’s no wonder that Kansas City ranks on our list.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Kansas City, MO?

• Medical Assistants in Kansas City make an average salary of $34,920.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $46,330 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 140
• The cost of living in Kansas City 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 $40,432.

18. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque beats at the heart of New Mexico. It’s the largest city in the state and offers a modern downtown area as well as Old Town Albuquerque. Lined with historic adobe buildings, Old Town is home to San Felipe de Neri Church, five museums, and countless shops. Visitors can recount the area’s tribal history at the nearby Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Albuquerque also maintains several state-of-the-art medical centers. Some of these include the VA Medical Center, Presbyterian Hospital, Presbyterian Medical Services, Heart Hospital of New Mexico, and Lovelace Women’s Hospital. The University of New Mexico Hospital even offers the largest number of adult and pediatric specialty programs in the state.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Albuquerque, NM?

• Medical Assistants in Albuquerque make an average salary of $31,840.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $41,110 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 128
• The cost of living in Albuquerque is 21% 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 $40,322.

19. Ithaca, New York

Ithaca is a small city in central New York, right at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake. It’s about 45 miles south-west of Syracuse, 247 miles southeast of Toronto, and 223 miles northwest of New York City. Named after the Greek island, Ithaca is also home to Cornell University and Ithaca College. This city is known for numerous gorges and waterfalls, eclectic shops, many restaurants, and a deep interest in politics.

Ithaca is also home to Cayuga Medical Center, which is officially referred to as Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca (CMC). It’s a nonprofit general hospital that serves residents from Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Cortland, Schuyler, Seneca, Tioga, and Tompkins counties.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Ithaca, NY?

• Medical Assistants in Ithaca make an average salary of $36,790.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $48,290 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 148
• The cost of living in Ithaca 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 $40,294.

20. Rochester, New York

A city in New York, Rochester forms the core of a larger suburban and rural area. It is home to a greater metro population that spans across six counties. Rochester is known for its music culture and major festivals, which include the Lilac Festival, Jazz Festival, Rochester Fringe Festival, and more. It’s also home to world-famous museums, like the Strong National Museum of Play and the George Eastman Museum.

In addition, Rochester has been a hub for several social/political movements, such as Abolitionism, the Women’s Rights Movement, and more. Today, the economy of Rochester is defined by technology and education. This is partially thanks to a highly educated workforce, research institutions, elite universities, allowing for growth in both the education and healthcare sectors.

Rochester has ranked highly due to cheaper cost of living, reputable public schools, and a low unemployment rate. In our study, the cost of living in Rochester was more than 16% cheaper than the average of all the other cities. This raises the pay of an average Medical Assistant to $40k or more.

How much do Medical Assistants make in Rochester, NY?

• Medical Assistants in Rochester make an average salary of $34,030.
• For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $44,940 or more.
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 137
• The cost of living in Rochester is 16% 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 $40,264.