Fuquay-Varina vs Raleigh: Medical Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare medical assistant salaries between Fuquay-Varina, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fuquay-Varina, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $44,909 | $48,454▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $21.59 | $23.29▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,827 | $39,595▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,270 | $41,411▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $46,563 | $49,777▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $54,509 | $59,224▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 3,810▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for medical assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fuquay-Varina.
The salary gap between Fuquay-Varina and Raleigh is $3,545 (7.89%). Raleigh's median is +1.03% compared to the US national median of $47,961.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fuquay-Varina spans $18,682,Raleigh spans $19,629. Raleigh 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, Raleigh ($49,364 effective) pays 2.88% more than Fuquay-Varina ($47,980 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fuquay-Varina if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,454/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($59,224)
- ✓Larger job market (3,810 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,364)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical assistant salaries in Fuquay-Varina grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.5% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Fuquay-Varina, NC
$34,958 (2024) → $42,783 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$34,840 (2019) → $46,160 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fuquay-Varina, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical assistants more: Fuquay-Varina or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fuquay-Varina and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Fuquay-Varina to Raleigh as a medical assistant?
What do entry-level medical assistants earn in Fuquay-Varina vs Raleigh?
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