Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants
SOC 31-9092
How Much Does a Medical Assistant Make?
The national median salary for a Medical Assistant is $42,000 per year ($20.19/hour), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data).
That's 36% below the national median salary of $65,470 for all occupations.
How to Become a Medical Assistant
Certificate program (1yr) or associate's. Some learn OJT.
CMA/RMA certification increasingly expected
This career has relatively low barriers to entry compared to similar roles.
Medical Assistant Job Outlook
Much faster than avg — the BLS projects 12% growth from 2024 to 2034.
That's significantly faster than the average across all occupations (4%).
About 119,700 positions are expected to open annually, from both new roles and replacement needs.
Physician office growth; team-based care
What It's Like to Work as a Medical Assistant
Expect a mix of desk work and some physical activity.
This role typically requires in-person work at a specific location.
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Career data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2024-34 projections (released August 2025). Salary data: BLS OEWS May 2024.
View on BLS.gov