Medical Assistant Salary in San Jose, California
The median medical assistant salary in San Jose, CA is $67,355 per year, which is 76.0% above the national median and 20.5% above the California state average.
Medical Assistant Pay in San Jose: What to Expect (2026)
San Jose offers a median medical assistant salary of $67,355, which is $11,481 above the California state average of $55,874. Compared to the national median of $38,270, San Jose pays above average for this role.
However, San Jose's cost of living index is 168%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $67,355 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $40,092. Housing, transportation, and food costs in San Jose should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for medical assistants in San Jose spans from $51,744 at the 10th percentile to $91,520 at the 90th percentile — a $39,776 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $52,800, while senior medical assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $84,480. As a major metro area with a population of 1,013,240, San Jose typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Medical Assistant Salary in San Jose by Experience
In San Jose, an entry-level medical assistant earns around $52,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,480 per year. The local cost of living index is 168% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in San Jose, CA
| Percentile | San Jose |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,744 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,432 |
| Median (50th) | $67,355 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,848 |
| 90th Percentile | $91,520 |
Medical Assistant Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Medical Assistant in San Jose
Education
Most medical assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. San Jose and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, medical assistant employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in San Jose may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Medical Assistant Jobs in San Jose
Browse open medical assistant positions in San Jose, CA: