Average Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary in Altoona, PA
In Altoona, PA, Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants earn an average annual salary of $41,120. This figure is notably below the national average of $45,380, 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 perfectly with the national average, meaning that while the nominal salary is lower, the purchasing power may offer a comparable lifestyle.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $41,120 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 23.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $50,920.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 270 professionals in this role, Altoona presents a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, job market for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants. The Location Quotient of 0.85 indicates a slightly lower concentration compared to the national average, suggesting that while the profession is present, it may not be a dominant sector. The rate of 4.594 jobs per 1,000 workers signifies a steady, consistent demand for these essential administrative roles within the healthcare ecosystem.
Salary Overview
The average Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants in Altoona, PA earns-9.4%below the national average.
$19.8
$791
$3,427
Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Altoona's Medical Secretary and Administrative Assistant salaries over the past four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend mirroring national patterns. Economic growth, inflation, and increasing demand for healthcare services typically drive salary increases in administrative support roles. Therefore, professionals in Altoona likely have experienced modest salary growth, aligning with broader industry trends that favor experienced and skilled administrative personnel.
Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA
Salary progression for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants in Altoona, PA, is typically tied to experience and specialized skills. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience, proficiency in electronic health records, and advanced administrative capabilities can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings reflect this career trajectory, rewarding those who demonstrate expertise and a commitment to professional development within the healthcare sector.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate / AnalystData entry, reporting, supporting senior staff. | 10% (Entry) | $32,750 | $15.7 |
| Senior AnalystIndependent analysis, forecasting, client interaction. | 25% (Junior) | $30,840 | $14.8 |
| ManagerOversees team, compliance, and project delivery. | 50% (Median) | $38,200 | $18.4 |
| Director / VPStrategic planning, budget ownership, risk management. | 75% (Senior) | $51,400 | $24.7 |
| Executive / PartnerC-level leadership. High-level strategy & relations. | 90% (Expert) | $50,920 | $24.5 |
Detailed Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$41,120
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$41,120
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average salary of $41,120 in Altoona, PA, is directly offset by a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is precisely the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Medical Secretary's or Administrative Assistant's salary in Altoona is equivalent to the national average. While the salary is lower than the national average, the stable cost of living ensures that the real value of their earnings is maintained, making it a financially neutral location from a cost-of-living perspective.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
4.594
Per 1K Jobs
0.85
Location Quotient
Altoona, PA has 0.85x the national average concentration of Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
The Location Quotient of 0.85 for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants in Altoona, PA, suggests a job market that is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This indicates that while the demand for these roles exists and is supported by a workforce of 270 individuals, the profession does not dominate the local employment landscape as it might in other areas. This equilibrium suggests a moderately competitive market where skilled professionals can find opportunities without facing extreme saturation.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Johnstown, PA Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary | $37,960↓ 8% | 30 mi |
| State College, PA Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary | $41,500↑ 1% | 35 mi |
| Chambersburg, PA Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary | $42,780↑ 4% | 56 mi |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary | $42,510↑ 3% | 70 mi |
| Gettysburg, PA Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants Salary | $41,870↑ 2% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Altoona, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants make in Altoona, PA?
The median annual salary for a Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants in Altoona, PA is $41,120. This typically ranges from $32,750 for entry-level positions to $50,920 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 9.4% lower than the national median of $45,380.
Is Altoona, PA a lucrative place for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants?
No, but it offers stable purchasing power.The average salary of $41,120 is below the national average, indicating it's not a high-paying location. However, with a Cost of Living Index at the national average, the salary's purchasing power is equivalent to the national standard.
Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Medical Secretaries and Administrative 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 ($37,960) and State College, PA.
How does Altoona's Medical Secretary salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants in Altoona, PA, is $41,120, which is lower than the national average of $45,380.
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, meaning expenses are comparable to the rest of the country.
Is there high demand for Medical Secretaries in Altoona?
With 4.594 jobs per 1,000 workers and a Location Quotient of 0.85, demand is steady but not exceptionally high, indicating a balanced job market.
How many Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants work in Altoona?
There are approximately 270 Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants employed in Altoona, PA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 4.594 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 Secretaries and Administrative Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Altoona, PA