Medical Assistant Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median medical assistant salary in Chicago, IL is $41,714 per year, which is 9.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the Illinois state average.
Medical Assistant Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median medical assistant salary of $41,714, which is $4,592 above the Illinois state average of $37,122. Compared to the national median of $38,270, Chicago pays above average for this role.
Chicago's cost of living is 107% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for medical assistants in Chicago spans from $32,046 at the 10th percentile to $56,680 at the 90th percentile — a $24,634 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,700, while senior medical assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $52,320. As a major metro area with a population of 2,693,976, Chicago typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Medical Assistant Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level medical assistant earns around $32,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,320 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,046 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,188 |
| Median (50th) | $41,714 |
| 75th Percentile | $48,832 |
| 90th Percentile | $56,680 |
Medical Assistant Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Medical Assistant in Chicago
Education
Most medical assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois 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 Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Medical Assistant Jobs in Chicago
Browse open medical assistant positions in Chicago, IL: