Average Medical Assistants Salary in Altoona, PA
Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA, earn an average annual salary of $38,160. This figure is notably below the national average of $44,590, suggesting that local economic factors and demand dynamics play a significant role in compensation within this specific region. The cost of living in Altoona aligns with the national average, making this salary comparison particularly insightful for potential and current healthcare professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,160 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 17.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $43,230.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 300 Medical Assistants and a Location Quotient of 1.0, the job market in Altoona, PA, mirrors the national concentration of this profession. The rate of 5.155 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a stable presence, suggesting consistent demand that aligns with the typical needs of healthcare facilities in similar-sized communities across the country.
Salary Overview
The average Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA earns-14.4%below the national average.
$18.4
$734
$3,180
Medical Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Altoona is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Medical Assistants nationwide have experienced a steady upward trend over the past four years, driven by inflation, increasing healthcare demands, and evolving responsibilities. This national trend likely influences local compensation, even if at a moderated pace compared to higher cost-of-living or high-demand metropolitan areas.
Medical Assistants Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA
Salary progression for Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA, typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with several years of experience and specialized skills can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in compensation signify clear career progression pathways, rewarding accumulated expertise and dedication within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $32,140 | $15.5 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $28,620 | $13.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $37,690 | $18.1 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $47,700 | $22.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $43,230 | $20.8 |
Detailed Medical Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,160
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,160
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary for Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA, stands at $38,160. When juxtaposed with a Cost of Living Index of 100 (which is the national average), this salary offers a purchasing power that is consistent with the national median. This means that while the salary is below the national average, the cost of essential goods and services in Altoona is also at the national average, providing a balanced economic outlook for residents.
Job Market Context
300
Total Jobs
5.155
Per 1K Jobs
1
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.00, Altoona, PA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Medical Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.0 for Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA, indicates that the concentration of this profession in the local workforce is precisely at the national average. This suggests a balanced market where demand and supply are relatively stable and predictable, without significant oversupply or undersupply of professionals. The job market is neither exceptionally competitive nor notably scarce, reflecting typical employment conditions for this role.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Medical Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Johnstown, PA Medical Assistants Salary | $37,310↓ 2% | 30 mi |
| State College, PA Medical Assistants Salary | $41,790↑ 10% | 35 mi |
| Chambersburg, PA Medical Assistants Salary | $42,310↑ 11% | 56 mi |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV Medical Assistants Salary | $41,010↑ 7% | 70 mi |
| Gettysburg, PA Medical Assistants Salary | $41,580↑ 9% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Altoona, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Medical Assistants make in Altoona, PA?
The median annual salary for a Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA is $38,160. This typically ranges from $32,140 for entry-level positions to $43,230 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 14.4% lower than the national median of $44,590.
Is Altoona, PA a lucrative place for Medical Assistants?
No, Altoona, PA is not a particularly lucrative place for Medical Assistants compared to the national average.The average salary of $38,160 is below the national average of $44,590, although the cost of living is also at the national average.
Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Medical Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Altoona, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Altoona, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Johnstown, PA ($37,310) and State College, PA.
How does Altoona's Medical Assistant salary compare to the national average?
Medical Assistants in Altoona, PA, earn an average of $38,160 annually, which is lower than the national average of $44,590.
What is the Cost of Living in Altoona, PA?
Altoona, PA, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average.
How many Medical Assistants are there in Altoona, PA?
There are approximately 300 Medical Assistants employed in Altoona, PA, representing 5.155 jobs per 1,000 workers.
Is the job market for Medical Assistants in Altoona competitive?
With a Location Quotient of 1.0, the job market for Medical Assistants in Altoona is considered average, indicating a balanced supply and demand for professionals in this field.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 300 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 5.155 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Medical Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Altoona, PA