Jun 5, 20243 min read

2024 PA-C Salary: National Averages in the US

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, so too do the expectations and compensation for its professionals. Among these, Physician Assistants (PAs) occupy a pivotal role, with their expertise and flexibility highly sought after in various medical settings. As professional recruiters, we find that the averages published by organizations such as AAPA are often inflated and paint an unrealistic picture of what private practices or hospitals can pay. Cost of living and compression continues to be a huge barrier for further industry wide pay increases, but we want to shed insight on realistic expectations for job hunters.

As a nationwide recruiter deeply immersed in the dialogue surrounding salary expectations and job offers for PAs, I've witnessed firsthand the nuanced variations in compensation across different regions. In 2024, these disparities reflect not only geographical differences but also the level of experience and the accompanying perks offered with each position.

Base Salary:

The cornerstone of any PA's compensation package is the base salary. In 2024, this figure fluctuates significantly based on the region of employment, reflecting variances in cost of living, demand-supply dynamics, and institutional budgets. This is noting average base salary versus additional pay or performance bonuses such as RVUs, or patient satisfaction ratings, etc.

Southeast: PA-Cs in the Southeast region can expect base salaries ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 annually. New graduates typically find themselves at the lower end of this spectrum, while seasoned professionals command salaries at the higher end.

New England: Moving northwards to New England, the base salary landscape shifts slightly higher, with ranges spanning from $115,000 to $160,000. The region's higher cost of living and competitive healthcare environment contribute to these elevated figures.

West Coast: On the opposite coast, PA-Cs in the West Coast enjoy even greater earning potential, with base salaries averaging between $125,000 and $180,000 annually. This reflects the region's robust healthcare infrastructure and higher median incomes.

Midwest: In the heartland of America, PA-Cs can expect base salaries in line with the national average, ranging from $90,000 to $140,000. While the figures may seem lower compared to coastal regions, the Midwest's lower cost of living balances out the equation.

Continuing Medical Education (CME) Coverage:

Beyond base salaries, healthcare institutions often provide additional incentives to support professional development. CME coverage, designed to facilitate ongoing education and skill enhancement, varies across regions in 2024.

Southeast: CME coverage in the Southeast typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,500, providing financial support for attending conferences, workshops, and certification programs.

New England: PAs practicing in New England enjoy more generous CME coverage, with ranges spanning from $1,500 to $3,000. This reflects the region's emphasis on maintaining a highly skilled workforce.

West Coast: Similarly, the West Coast offers competitive CME packages ranging from $1,500 to $3,500, enabling PA-Cs to stay abreast of the latest advancements in their field.

Midwest: In the Midwest, CME coverage mirrors that of the Southeast, typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,500, providing adequate support for professional development endeavors.

Paid Time Off:

In addition to competitive salaries and CME benefits, paid time off (PTO) remains a crucial component of a PA's compensation package, ensuring work-life balance and overall well-being.

- Across all regions, PAs can typically expect 2-3 weeks of PTO, along with additional sick leave allowances.

- Moreover, dedicated CME days, typically ranging from 3-5 days per year or practices may offer internal CME opportunities to help providers not have to travel or take on more expenses.

In summary, while the average pay for PA-Cs in 2024 varies significantly based on region, experience level, and institutional factors, one thing remains clear: the demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to drive competitive compensation packages across the board. As the landscape evolves, staying informed about regional trends and negotiating strategically can empower PA-Cs to secure the compensation and benefits they deserve in this dynamic field.

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