Medical Assistant Salary New York 2026: Key Figures Revealed
Did you know the median salary for a Medical Assistant in New York is $46,040[1], higher than the national median of $44,200[1]? This salary difference can be crucial as you plan your career path in the bustling healthcare sector of New York. Navigating medical assistant jobs in this competitive environment involves understanding the salary landscape, potential growth, and geographical variations. In this article, you’ll find insights into the essential figures for 2026, helping you determine where you stand and what opportunities are available. From the New York versus national comparison to specific metro area salaries, we break down the numbers that matter to your career. Get ready to boost your understanding of medical assistant positions near you and make informed decisions for the future.
Salary Overview
Medical Assistant positions in New York offer competitive salaries compared to the national average. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for Medical Assistants in New York is $46,040[2], compared to the national median of $44,200[2]. Moreover, the 10th and 90th percentile wages are $36,980 and $58,250 respectively, which indicate a broad range of potential earnings. This suggests that New York offers a competitive landscape for Medical Assistants.
Experience Level Breakdown
While specific salary data by experience level is limited, career progression typically affects earning potential. Entry-level positions might start closer to the $36,980 mark, while seasoned professionals can earn upwards of the 75th percentile wage at $54,150.
Geographic Analysis: New York
New York offers varied salary opportunities depending on the city or metro area:
- Ithaca, NY Metro — Median salary: $48,860
- New York-Newark-Jersey City Metro — Median salary: $46,890
- Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY Metro — Median salary: $44,960
- Rochester, NY Metro — Median salary: $43,230
- Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY Metro — Median salary: $41,880
Cost of living and demand for healthcare services play significant roles in these variations.
Salary Trends for 2026
Despite limited specific future data, the BLS projects a 12% job growth from 2024 to 2034 for Medical Assistants, which is much faster than average[3]. This growth is fueled by increased demand for healthcare services.
Factors Affecting Salary
Salaries can be affected by the type of employment setting, with hospitals often offering higher wages than clinics or outpatient centers.
- Type of Facility: Hospitals generally pay more compared to clinics.
- Certifications: Additional certifications can increase earning potential.
How to Increase Salary
Strategies for increasing your salary as a Medical Assistant in New York include:
- Pursuing Further Education: Certifications and specialized training can enhance skills and marketability.
- Gaining Experience: Seniority and expertise in specialized areas can command higher wages.
- Exploring Different Work Environments: Consider transitioning to roles in hospitals where potential earnings are typically higher.
Conclusion
The insights on the Medical Assistant role highlight significant salary variability, reflecting both skill demand and geographic differences. The national median annual salary stands at $44,200, while the New York median annual salary is higher at $46,040. In the Ithaca metro area, salaries peak at a median of $48,860.
- Average salary: $21.25/hour nationally
- Top-paying cities/states: Ithaca, NY with a median of $48,860
- Key factors affecting earnings: Experience, metro area
- Growth outlook: 12% national increase from 2024 to 2034
The data is clear—strategic moves can increase earnings. Explore our comprehensive Medical Assistant career advancement guide to plan your next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average Medical Assistant salary in New York in 2026?
The average salary for a Medical Assistant in New York in 2026 remains competitive, with a median annual wage of $46,040. This is notably higher than the national median of $44,200[4].
2. How much does an entry-level Medical Assistant make in New York?
An entry-level Medical Assistant in New York can expect to start on the lower end of the salary spectrum, with wages starting around the 10th percentile at $36,980. As experience increases, so do earning potentials[4].
3. Is Medical Assistant salary higher in New York or New Jersey?
Medical Assistant salaries in New York generally are comparable to those in New Jersey. Specifically, the New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area boasts a median salary of $46,890[4].
4. What certifications increase Medical Assistant salary the most?
Certifications can enhance salary potential, with specialties like phlebotomy and EKG proficiency boosting earnings. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credentials can also increase marketability and salary.
5. Is Medical Assistant salary expected to increase in 2027?
Given the favorable job growth projection of 12% from 2024 to 2034, salaries for Medical Assistants are expected to see a continued increase. This trend is driven by higher demand for healthcare professionals[3].
6. Do travel Medical Assistants make more than staff Medical Assistants?
Travel Medical Assistants often earn more due to variable schedules and additional skill requirements. They can command higher wages than their staff counterparts owing to flexibility and the willingness to relocate.
Sources
[1] All Allied Health Schools – Medical Assisting in New York. www.allalliedhealthschools.com/medical-assisting/new-york/
[2] BLS – Medical Assistant Overview. www.bls.gov
[3] NurseJournal – Medical Assistant Job Outlook. nursejournal.org/careers/medical-assistant/salary/
[4] My Medical Assistant Degree – www.mymedicalassistingdegree.com/salary/new-york/