Amherst vs Worcester: Medical Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare medical assistant salaries between Amherst, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Amherst, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,808▲ | $49,588 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.94▲ | $23.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,921 | $42,996▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,059 | $46,418▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $52,131 | $59,455▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,259 | $62,100▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 1,770▲ |
Verdict
Amherst and Worcester are closely matched on overall medical assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Amherst and Worcester is $220 (0.44%). Amherst's median is +3.85% compared to the US national median of $47,961.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Amherst spans $22,338,Worcester spans $19,104. Amherst has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Worcester ($48,368 effective) pays 5.36% more than Amherst ($45,906 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Amherst if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($49,808/year)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($62,100)
- ✓Larger job market (1,770 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $48,368)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical assistant salaries in Amherst grew -11.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Amherst, MA
$53,757 (2024) → $47,450 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$39,390 (2019) → $47,240 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Amherst, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical assistants more: Amherst or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Amherst and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Amherst to Worcester as a medical assistant?
What do entry-level medical assistants earn in Amherst vs Worcester?
Related Comparisons
Written by Emma Chen, CMA
Career Analyst
Emma has over 8 years of experience as a medical assistant. She has worked in both outpatient clinics and hospitals. Her expertise includes patient care and administrative support.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.97% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Emma Chen, CMA, a licensed medical assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov