Athens vs Augusta: Medical Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare medical assistant salaries between Athens, GA and Augusta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Athens, GA | Augusta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,539▲ | $40,382 |
| Hourly Rate | $19.49▲ | $19.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,971 | $33,727▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $37,443 | $38,062▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $45,567▲ | $45,326 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $49,336 | $50,837▲ |
| Total Employed | 910 | 1,620▲ |
Verdict
Athens and Augusta are closely matched on overall medical assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Athens and Augusta is $157 (0.39%). Athens's median is -15.48% compared to the US national median of $47,961.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Athens spans $16,365,Augusta spans $17,110. Augusta has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced medical assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Augusta ($43,940 effective) pays 1.17% more than Athens ($43,430 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Athens if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($40,539/year)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($50,837)
- ✓Larger job market (1,620 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $43,940)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical assistant salaries in Athens grew 13.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 24.0% growth in Augusta over the same period.
Athens, GA
$34,070 (2019) → $38,620 (2025)
Augusta, GA
$31,030 (2019) → $38,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Athens, GA
Augusta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical assistants more: Athens or Augusta?
What is the hourly rate difference between Athens and Augusta?
Should I relocate from Athens to Augusta as a medical assistant?
What do entry-level medical assistants earn in Athens vs Augusta?
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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