Physician Assistant Salary Reality — What You Actually Take Home
Physician assistants practice medicine under physician supervision, examining patients, diagnosing conditions, and prescribing treatment.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFJob outlook: Much faster than average (27% growth 2024-2034)
Take-home reality
A physician assistant earning the national median of $130,020 takes home approximately $8,302/month in a no-tax state and $7,294/month in a high-tax state like California.
The salary reality
A physician assistant earning the national median of $130,020 has excellent purchasing power in nearly all U.S. cities.
Where Physician Assistant Salary Goes Furthest
Where Physician Assistant Salary Is Most Stretched
Housing context
At median salary, PAs can comfortably afford the median 1BR in all cities, with strong savings potential outside the most expensive metros.
Career context
PA programs require a master's degree (typically 2-3 years post-bachelor's), and the profession offers strong job security with consistent demand across specialties.
Income Reality Score — Columbus (best for this career)
Purchasing Power Reality
What a physician assistant salary feels like in other cities
Physician Assistant Salary — FAQ
What is the average physician assistant salary?
The national median is $130,020 per BLS OEWS May 2025, one of the fastest-growing healthcare occupations.
How long does it take to become a PA?
Typically 6-7 years total — a bachelor's degree plus a 2-3 year master's level PA program.
Salary data: BLS OEWS May 2025. This is a picture, not a verdict.