Medical Assistant Salary in Arkansas
The median medical assistant salary in Arkansas is $31,381 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $38,270.
Medical Assistant Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for medical assistant compensation. Medical Assistant salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $31,381 per year, medical assistants in Arkansas earn $6,889 less than the national median of $38,270.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $31,381 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $37,358 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: medical assistants at the 10th percentile earn $24,108, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $42,640 — a $18,532 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $32,912.
Nationally, medical assistant employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Arkansas and beyond.
Medical Assistant Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level medical assistant earns around $24,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $39,360 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,108 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,224 |
| Median (50th) | $31,381 |
| 75th Percentile | $36,736 |
| 90th Percentile | $42,640 |
Medical Assistant Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for medical assistants in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Medical Assistant in Arkansas
Education
Most medical assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, medical assistant employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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