Physician Assistant Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median physician assistant salary in Columbia, MO is $110,889 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Physician Assistant Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median physician assistant salary of $110,889, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $110,889. Compared to the national median of $126,010, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $110,889 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $126,010 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for physician assistants seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for physician assistants in Columbia spans from $73,920 at the 10th percentile to $153,120 at the 90th percentile — a $79,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $77,440, while senior physician assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $142,560. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physician Assistant Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $77,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $142,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $73,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,280 |
| Median (50th) | $110,889 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $153,120 |
Physician Assistant Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Physician Assistant in Columbia
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physician Assistant Jobs in Columbia
Browse open physician assistant positions in Columbia, MO: