Medical Assisting Education & Careers
Guide to medical assisting salaries in Maryland
Maryland stands out as an exceptional state for medical assistants, offering not only a thriving healthcare industry but also competitive salaries. Aspiring medical assistants will find numerous opportunities for growth and professional development, making Maryland an attractive destination for those looking to kickstart or advance their careers in healthcare.
Quick overview for MD
There are roughly 14,440 people employed as medical assistants in Maryland says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This means that for every 1,000 people in the state, just over five are medical assistants. The median wage per hour in Maryland is $21 says the BLS, and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 13.9%.
These top employers in Maryland represent a mix of academic medical centers, large healthcare systems and community-focused medical facilities, providing medical assistants with diverse opportunities to contribute to various aspects of patient care and healthcare administration:
- Johns Hopkins Hospital: Baltimore, MD. Johns Hopkins Hospital is renowned globally for its leadership in medical research, patient care and teaching. As a teaching hospital affiliated with Johns Hopkins University, it offers a diverse range of medical services, including advanced specialties and cutting-edge treatments.
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Baltimore, MD. The University of Maryland Medical Center is a leading academic medical center that provides comprehensive healthcare services. Affiliated with the University of Maryland School of Medicine, this medical center is recognized for its research and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care.
- MedStar Health: Multiple locations including Baltimore, MD. MedStar Health is a not-for-profit healthcare organization that operates hospitals, urgent care centers, and other healthcare facilities across Maryland and the D.C. metropolitan area. It is known for its focus on patient-centered care and innovation in medical practices.
- Mercy Medical Center: Baltimore, MD. Mercy Medical Center is a Catholic hospital that provides a wide range of medical services, including surgical, emergency, and specialty care. It is recognized for its commitment to compassionate and high-quality healthcare services.
- Anne Arundel Medical Center: Annapolis, MD. Anne Arundel Medical Center is a regional health system that serves communities in and around Anne Arundel County. It offers a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and surgical services. The medical center is known for its focus on community health and wellness.
How much do they make?
Maryland’s robust healthcare system contributes significantly to the above-average salaries for medical assistants. The state boasts world-renowned medical facilities, cutting-edge research institutions and a strong commitment to healthcare advancement.
While the median national salary for medical assistants is $42,000 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, what certifications you have earned and your level of education. Here’s how medical assistant salaries compare with some other entry-level healthcare careers:
Median medical assistant salary in Maryland
The median annual salary for medical assisting professionals in Maryland is $44,010, higher than the national median. It’s also important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state. You should also consider the cost of living in the area, as salaries may vary based on whether you work in a major city or smaller town.
Along with just higher than the national median salary, medical assistants in Maryland may receive benefits such as health insurance, 401k and paid time off.
10%$36,130
25%$38,040
50%$44,010Median
75%$47,120
90%$55,250
Median Hourly Wage$21
Job growth13.9%
Total Employment14,440
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| California-Lexington Park, MD | $44,510 | $36,050 | $58,390 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $43,720 | $36,050 | $54,030 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | $39,840 | $33,480 | $47,890 |
| Salisbury, MD-DE | $39,410 | $33,510 | $47,050 |
| Cumberland, MD-WV | $35,840 | $29,750 | $45,300 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 median salary; projected job growth through 2032. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary ranges for a medical assisting career in Maryland
The salary ranges for medical assistants in Maryland vary based on experience and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $32,000 to $38,000 per year, with senior roles commanding salaries from $47,000 to upwards of $55,000 annually says the BLS. This range reflects the state’s commitment to compensating healthcare professionals competitively.
Pay by metro area within the state of Maryland
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city has several high profile, university-affiliated medical facilities, such as Baltimore or Bethesda, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S. As you can see, Maryland doesn’t factor into the top 10 for pay, however the BLS says Cecil County, MD ranks at #10 (along with Philadelphia, PA, Camden, NJ, and Wilmington, DE) for highest employment level in medical assisting in the country.
Factors affecting medical assisting salaries in Maryland
While Maryland’s cost of living is higher than the national average, the competitive salaries and diverse employment opportunities offset this. Factors such as experience and certification can influence pay, allowing medical assistants to align their career choices with their financial goals.
Other factors that contribute to salary levels include:
Location: Salaries vary significantly across different regions of Maryland, with metropolitan areas generally offering higher compensation.
Industry and Specialty: Medical assistants in specialized fields or high-demand specialties may receive higher salaries.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly as a medical assistant in Maryland?
Maryland has robust equal pay and labor laws to protect workers from discrimination. The Maryland Equal Pay for Equal Work Act ensures that all employees, regardless of gender, receive equal pay for equal work.
If you want to understand how your pay equates to others in the same role, you can talk to people in your network who are also medical assistants. Utilizing the HR department at your place of work is another resource as HR professionals are skilled in understanding pay ranges and all of the nuances that may impact pay and titles in a particular location and position.
If you still feel you are not being paid fairly and have documentation to substantiate your claim, the Maryland Department of Labor stands as a resource for addressing workplace concerns.
Education and training for medical assistants in Maryland
To become a medical assistant in Maryland, individuals must complete a formal education program. Most employers prefer candidates with a certificate or diploma in medical assisting or a two-year associate degree from accredited institutions. Community colleges and vocational schools across Maryland offer comprehensive programs tailored to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.
Career advancement through certification
Professional certification can significantly enhance a medical assistant’s career prospects. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential is widely recognized in Maryland and provides an avenue for career growth and increased earning potential.
Cost of living considerations for MD
We’ve established that Maryland’s cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly in major cities. When evaluating salary offers, considerations should include housing, transportation and daily expenses.
RentCafe says that Maryland’s cost of living is 22% higher than the national average, and housing is 54% higher. Take a look:
| Maryland City | Cost of living % |
|---|---|
| Bethesda | 39% higher |
| La Plata | 15% higher |
| Baltimore City | 7% higher |
Maryland professional associations and networking
Joining professional organizations such as the Maryland Society of Medical Assistants—which is the state chapter of the AAMA—not only provides a sense of community but also offers networking opportunities, educational resources and updates on industry trends. These organizations empower medical assistants to stay informed and engaged in their profession.
Maryland stands out as an exceptional state for medical assistants, offering a rich healthcare landscape and competitive salaries. To embark on this rewarding career journey, individuals should seek accredited education programs, pursue professional certification and leverage resources to ensure fair compensation. By joining state-specific professional organizations, aspiring and current medical assistants can stay connected, informed and inspired on their path to success. Take the first step today, explore the numerous educational opportunities Maryland offers, and carve a fulfilling career in medical assisting.
This medical assistant salary guide for Maryland aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the medical assisting profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Find medical assistant salaries for other states
Learn what you may be able to earn in your state, how the cost of living and other factors could impact your pay, why education matters—especially in healthcare roles—and much more.
Written and reported by:
My Medical Assisting Degree Staff
Published: February 5, 2024