Lawrence vs Wichita: Medical Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare medical assistant salaries between Lawrence, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawrence, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $39,017 | $40,550▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $18.76 | $19.49▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,108 | $37,705▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $38,304 | $38,986▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $41,148 | $46,470▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $46,397 | $47,982▲ |
| Total Employed | 210 | 1,190▲ |
Verdict
Wichita, KS offers better overall compensation for medical assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lawrence.
The salary gap between Lawrence and Wichita is $1,533 (3.93%). Wichita's median is -15.45% compared to the US national median of $47,961.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lawrence spans $13,289,Wichita spans $10,277. Lawrence 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, Wichita ($45,589 effective) pays 5.44% more than Lawrence ($43,235 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($40,550/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($47,982)
- ✓Larger job market (1,190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $45,589)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical assistant salaries in Lawrence grew 21.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.4% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Lawrence, KS
$30,720 (2019) → $37,170 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$30,570 (2019) → $38,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Wichita, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical assistants more: Lawrence or Wichita?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawrence and Wichita?
Should I relocate from Lawrence to Wichita as a medical assistant?
What do entry-level medical assistants earn in Lawrence vs Wichita?
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