Medical Assistants Salary in San Jose, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA
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In San Jose, CA, the typical medical assistant earns a median annual salary of $62,290 and an hourly wage of approximately $29.95. This compensation is notably higher than the national median for medical assistants, which stands at $44,200. When compared to the local household income in San Jose, which averages $157,444 annually, it's evident that medical assistants earn about 39% of a typical household’s total earnings. Despite this percentage, their earning potential places them above many other entry-level positions within the region, reflecting both the demand for healthcare professionals and the cost-of-living adjustments characteristic of Silicon Valley areas.
Entry-level medical assistants in San Jose typically earn around $46,870 annually, which is at the 10th percentile mark. In contrast, those with more experience can expect to reach or surpass earnings up to $77,330 per year by reaching the 90th percentile. The significant salary range between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by several factors, including additional certifications, years of service, and specialized skills such as proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems or laboratory testing. Moreover, geographic demand variations within San Jose’s high-cost living area also contribute to the higher compensation levels for medical assistants compared to other regions.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Jose economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Medical Assistants make per hour in San Jose?
The median hourly wage for Medical Assistants in San Jose, CA is $29.95, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $38.28 or more per hour.
Is San Jose above or below average for Medical Assistants salaries?
The median Medical Assistants salary in San Jose, CA is 40.9% above the national median of $44,200. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Medical Assistants in San Jose?
Entry-level Medical Assistants (10th percentile) earn around $46,870 per year in San Jose, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $49,890.