Medical Assistant Salary and Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the 2023 median pay for medical assistants is $42,000 per year. Job growth in this field remains much faster than average as healthcare facilities expand their support teams.

Written and reviewed by the LexPort exam-prep team, led by our Founder & Exam-Prep Lead. LexPort builds certification practice questions — this is exam-preparation material, not medical advice. Last reviewed July 2026.

How much does a certified medical assistant make?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists the 2023 median salary for medical assistants at $42,000 annually, or about $20.19 per hour. Exact pay varies by your location, experience, and specific employer.

Does holding the CCMA increase my salary?

Many employers offer higher starting wages to credentialed staff. The BLS tracks all medical assistants together, so you will not find a separate national figure exclusively for this specific credential.

What is the job outlook for medical assistants?

The BLS projects medical assistant employment to grow 14 percent from 2023 to 2033. This growth rate is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Where do medical assistants earn the most money?

Outpatient care centers and hospitals typically pay the highest wages for this role. Physicians' offices employ the most medical assistants but often pay slightly less than large hospital networks.

Do clinical duties pay more than administrative duties?

Pay usually depends on your total skill set rather than a strict division of tasks. Your daily work will heavily feature Clinical Patient Care, which makes up about 56% of the scored topics on your certification test.

How do I qualify for these medical assistant jobs?

You need to complete a recognized training program or possess qualifying work experience. For the exact documentation required to prove your eligibility, review the official NHA candidate handbook.

Will my salary increase if I renew my certification?

Maintaining an active credential keeps you eligible for promotions and raises at most clinics. If your certification lapses and remains inactive for over a year, it becomes invalid and you must pass the exam again to regain your status.

How much does it cost to maintain my credential?

You must pay a renewal fee and complete continuing education credits to stay active. For the current pricing and exact credit requirements, consult the NHA website.

Does passing the exam guarantee a specific starting wage?

No certification guarantees a set salary. Your initial pay rate depends on local market demand, your interview performance, and your prior healthcare experience.

Can I negotiate my pay based on my exam score?

Employers care that you passed, not how high you scored. You need a 390 out of 500 to pass, but clinics focus on your practical skills rather than your exact numerical result.