Medical Assistant Salary in California
Based on 117K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$49,660
$23.88/hr
vs National Average
$44,603
+11.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$39K – $77K
117K employed in California
The Medical Assistant salary in California shows a median annual income of $49,660, which translates to approximately $24 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, with California Medical Assistants earning about 11.3% more. With a substantial 117,060 individuals employed in this role across the state, it's a significant profession within the healthcare sector.
Several factors can influence the actual pay for a Medical Assistant in California. Experience levels, the specific healthcare setting (e.g., private practice, hospital, clinic), and geographic location within California all play a role in determining compensation. The salary range for Medical Assistants in the state falls between $39,290 and $77,300 annually.
Salary Distribution — Medical Assistant in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $39,290 |
| 25th percentile | $46,240 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $49,660 |
| 75th percentile | $61,870 |
| 90th percentile | $77,300 |
Top-Paying Industries for Medical Assistant (U.S.)
Which industries pay Medical Assistants the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Medical Assistants in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Wholesale Trade | $48,870 | 260 |
| Educational Services | $48,660 | 10K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $48,120 | 7K |
| Finance and Insurance | $48,090 | 530 |
| Information | $46,400 | — |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Medical Assistant in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,660 |
| 2026 (projected) | $51,150 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,660 | $44,603 |
| 2026 (projected) | $51,150 | $45,941 |
Medical Assistant Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $46,240 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $49,660 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $61,870 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $77,300 |
Medical Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Medical Assistant Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Medical Assistant ($49,660 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Medical Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist in CA | $353,500 | +611.8% | $169.95/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in CA | $313,890 | +532.1% | $150.91/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in CA | $301,240 | +506.6% | $144.83/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in CA | $292,410 | +488.8% | $140.58/hr |
| Radiologist in CA | $270,560 | +444.8% | $130.08/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in CA | $252,010 | +407.5% | $121.16/hr |
| Pediatrician in CA | $214,140 | +331.2% | $102.95/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in CA | $203,840 | +310.5% | $98.00/hr |
| Podiatrist in CA | $201,300 | +305.4% | $96.78/hr |
| Cardiologist in CA | $185,610 | +273.8% | $89.24/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in CA | $168,520 | +239.3% | $81.02/hr |
| Dentist in CA | $165,950 | +234.2% | $79.78/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Medical Assistant in California?
- The median Medical Assistant salary in California is $49,660 per year, or roughly $24 per hour. This is 11.3% higher than the national average, indicating a strong earning potential in the state.
What is the salary range for Medical Assistants in California?
- Medical Assistants in California can expect to earn a salary between $39,290 on the lower end and up to $77,300 annually at the higher end. The median falls within this range at $49,660 per year.
How does the Medical Assistant salary in California compare to the national average?
- The Medical Assistant salary in California is 11.3% higher than the national average. This means professionals in California typically earn more than their counterparts in other states, with a median of $49,660 annually.
How many Medical Assistants are employed in California?
- There are approximately 117,060 Medical Assistants employed in California. This substantial number reflects the demand for these professionals within the state's healthcare system.