As of 2014, the average medical assistants brought home just shy of $29,960 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But earnings vary greatly by location, as employers must offer higher wages in certain areas of the country to attract qualified candidates. On average, the highest wages paid in occupational therapy were in District of Columbia, Alaska, Massachusetts, Washington and Connecticut.
Salary: $21,540 – $42,760
Min. Education: Associate’s
Related Careers: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse
| Where the highest medical assistants salaries are | |
| State | Salary (hourly) |
| 1. District of Columbia | $19.16 |
| 2. Alaska | $19.08 |
| 3. Massachusetts | $18.09 |
| 4. Washington | $17.24 |
| 5. Connecticut | $17.00 |
| Where the lowest medical assistants salaries are | |
| 1. Guam | $11.43 |
| 2. West Virginia | $12.08 |
| 3. Alabama | $12.47 |
| 4. Puerto Rico | $12.75 |
| 5. Louisiana | $12.84 |
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Data extracted on February 8, 2016