The earnings of medical assistants vary, depending on their experience, skill level, and location. Median annual earnings of medical assistants were $24,610 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $20,650 and $28,930. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,010, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $34,650. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of medical assistants in May 2004 were:
| Colleges, universities, and professional schools | $27,490 |
| Outpatient care centers | 25,360 |
| General medical and surgical hospitals | 25,160 |
| Offices of physicians | 24,930 |
| Offices of other health practitioners | 21,930 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition