Independence vs Lexington: Medical Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare medical assistant salaries between Independence, KY and Lexington, KY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, KY | Lexington, KY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,942 | $42,376▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.68 | $20.37▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,306 | $38,325▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $34,693 | $40,287▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $43,792 | $48,989▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $51,899▲ | $49,987 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 2,210▲ |
Verdict
Lexington, KY offers better overall compensation for medical assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Independence.
The salary gap between Independence and Lexington is $1,434 (3.50%). Lexington's median is -11.64% compared to the US national median of $47,961.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $18,593,Lexington spans $11,662. Independence 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, Independence ($45,848 effective) pays 0.50% more than Lexington ($45,620 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($51,899)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $45,848)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Choose Lexington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($42,376/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical assistant salaries in Independence grew 19.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.5% growth in Lexington over the same period.
Independence, KY
$32,779 (2024) → $39,004 (2025)
Lexington, KY
$34,370 (2019) → $40,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, KY
Lexington, KY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical assistants more: Independence or Lexington?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Lexington?
Should I relocate from Independence to Lexington as a medical assistant?
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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