Medical Assistant Career Guide: Bloomington, MN

The Salary Picture: Where Bloomington Stands

As a local who’s watched Bloomington’s healthcare economy evolve over the past two decades, I can tell you the salary picture here is a classic case of steady, reliable growth—nothing flashy, but solid for a medical assistant (MA). The median salary for MAs in the Bloomington metro area is $38,786/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.65/hour. That’s slightly above the national average of $38,270/year, a testament to the strong healthcare infrastructure here. The metro supports 174 MA jobs, and the 10-year job growth projection is 15%—outpacing the national average, thanks to an aging population and the expansion of outpatient and specialty clinics.

Here’s how salary breaks down by experience level, based on local job postings and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington metro:

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range (Bloomington Metro)	Key Local Employers at This Level
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$34,000 - $36,500/year	Allina Health Clinics, Fairview Health Services, MinuteClinics
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$37,500 - $41,000/year	HealthPartners, Park Nicollet Clinics, University of Minnesota Health
Senior (5+ years)	$42,000 - $47,000/year	M Health Fairview, Hennepin Healthcare, Specialty Clinics (e.g., Dermatology, Orthopedics)
Expert/Specialized (Lead MA, Instructing)	$48,000+	Teaching hospitals, corporate clinics, management roles

When you compare Bloomington to other Minnesota cities, the numbers hold up well. The Twin Cities metro (including Bloomington) is the state’s highest-paying region for MAs, thanks to major hospital systems. Rochester (home to Mayo Clinic) pays slightly more—median around $40,200/year—but the cost of living is also higher. Duluth and St. Cloud hover around $36,000 - $37,000/year. For MAs seeking growth without the intensity of downtown Minneapolis, Bloomington strikes a practical balance.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about finances. Bloomington’s average 1BR rent is $1,327/month, and the cost of living index is 104.5 (US average = 100). This means you’ll pay about 4.5% more than the national average for groceries, utilities, and transportation. For an MA earning the median salary of $38,786/year, here’s a monthly budget breakdown after taxes and rent:

Category	Monthly Estimate	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$3,232	$38,786 / 12
Taxes (Federal, State, FICA)	~$680	Estimated effective tax rate of ~21%
Take-Home Pay	$2,552	After taxes
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,327	Affordable areas; luxury units cost more
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$200	Varies by season; Minnesota winters add heating costs
Groceries	$350	Single person; Bloomington has decent grocery options (Lunds & Byerlys, Aldi)
Transportation	$250	Car is essential; public transit (Metro Transit) is limited in parts of Bloomington
Healthcare/Insurance	$150	Employer-sponsored plans common; expect deductibles
Misc. (Phone, Personal)	$300
Total Expenses	$2,577
Monthly Surplus/Deficit	-$25	Tight but manageable with a roommate or a slightly higher wage

Can you afford to buy a home? In Bloomington, the median home price is around $350,000. With a $38,786 salary, a 20% down payment ($70,000) is likely out of reach without significant savings or dual income. However, Minnesota offers first-time homebuyer programs (like the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s “Start Up” program) with down payment assistance. For a single MA, buying is a long-term goal—likely requiring 5+ years of savings or career advancement to a senior role (e.g., $45,000+). Renting in a shared apartment (e.g., splitting a 2BR in Edina or Bloomington proper) can reduce housing costs to ~$800/month, easing the budget.

Where the Jobs Are: Bloomington's Major Employers

Bloomington is a healthcare hub, anchored by its proximity to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and major highways (I-35W, I-494). As a local, I’ve seen the job market shift from hospital-centric to a mix of large systems, specialty clinics, and retail health. Here are the top employers for MAs, with hiring trends based on recent postings and industry reports:

1. M Health Fairview (formerly Fairview Health Services): The largest employer in the metro, with clinics in Bloomington (e.g., Fairview Clinic Bloomington). They’re actively hiring MAs for primary care and specialty departments. Hiring trend: Steady, with a focus on MAs with EHR experience (Epic is their system).

2. HealthPartners: Based in nearby St. Louis Park, this integrated system has multiple Bloomington clinics (e.g., HealthPartners RiverWay Clinic). They value MAs with patient education skills. Hiring trend: Growing, especially in dermatology and women’s health.

3. Allina Health: Operates the Allina Health Bloomington Clinic and urgent care centers. They’re expanding behavioral health services, creating MA roles in mental health settings. Hiring trend: Increasing; they offer tuition reimbursement for MA certification.

4. Park Nicollet Clinic (part of HealthPartners): Located in the South Loop area, this clinic is a major hire for MAs. They prioritize MAs with phlebotomy certification. Hiring trend: Strong, with a focus on seasonal flu shot campaigns.

5. MinuteClinics (CVS Health): Retail clinics in Bloomington (e.g., at Target on Lyndale Ave). These are entry-level spots with flexible hours. Hiring trend: High turnover, but good for gaining experience quickly.

6. Hennepin Healthcare (Hennepin County Medical Center): While the main hospital is in Minneapolis, their Bloomington outpatient locations (e.g., Specialty Care Clinic) hire MAs for surgical specialties. Hiring trend: Selective, requiring 1-2 years of experience.

7. University of Minnesota Health (M Health): Their Bloomington facilities (e.g., University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview) hire MAs for research and academic roles. Hiring trend: Competitive; preferred for MAs with an interest in research or teaching.

Insider tip: Networking at the Minnesota Medical Association (MMA) events or Bloomington Healthcare Network meetups can yield unadvertised roles. Many clinics post jobs on LinkedIn or local boards like the Twin Cities Career Center.

Getting Licensed in MN

Minnesota has straightforward licensing for MAs, but you must meet specific requirements. The Minnesota Board of Medical Practice oversees this. Here’s the timeline and costs:

• Education: You need an accredited MA program (9-12 months). Local options include Dunwoody College of Technology (Minneapolis, ~$15,000 tuition) or Hennepin Technical College (Brooklyn Park, ~$12,000). Both have Bloomington-area externships.
• Certification: Pass the CMA (AAMA) exam or RMA (AMT) exam. Exam fee: $250 - $400. Study materials (e.g., AAMA’s prep course) cost ~$150.
• Background Check: Required by the Board; fee ~$50.
• Application: Submit to the Board; processing time is 4-6 weeks. Total cost: $500 - $800 (including education, exam, and fees).

Timeline: From enrollment to licensure, expect 12-18 months if starting from scratch. If you’re already certified in another state, Minnesota has reciprocity for CMA/RMA holders—just apply for licensure (fee ~$150). Keep in mind: Bloomington employers often prefer MAs with phlebotomy certification (additional 6-8 week course, ~$800 at St. Paul College). Insider tip: Check the MN Job Skills Partnership for subsidized training if you’re a recent graduate or career changer.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Bloomington isn’t just about the Mall of America—it’s a diverse city with neighborhoods suited to different lifestyles. As a local, I’ve lived in and around these areas. Here are the top picks for MAs, factoring in commute (most jobs are in central Bloomington or nearby Edina), rent, and amenities:

Neighborhood	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Commute to Major Clinics	Lifestyle Perks
Bloomington Central (Near MOA)	$1,200 - $1,400	10-15 minutes to most clinics; easy I-494 access	Walkable, transit (LRT to Mpls), diverse food scene. Great for young professionals.
Edina (Bordering Bloomington)	$1,400 - $1,600	10-20 minutes to Bloomington clinics via Crosstown	Upscale, safe, excellent schools. Ideal if you want a quieter vibe but close to work.
Richfield (South of Bloomington)	$1,000 - $1,200	15-25 minutes; public transit options (Bus 46)	Affordable, family-friendly, with parks and easy access to Minneapolis.
South Loop (Near HealthPartners)	$1,300 - $1,500	5-10 minutes to clinics; walkable	Modern apartments, retail, and dining. Perfect for MAs who want minimal commute.
Normandale Lake Area	$1,100 - $1,300	15-20 minutes; car recommended	Quiet, near Normandale Community College, and the lake for recreation. Good for introverts.

Personal insight: If you’re new to the area, start in Richfield or Bloomington Central for affordability and job access. Avoid Downtown Minneapolis—commute can be brutal during snowstorms. For a roommate setup, a 2BR in South Loop can split to $750/person.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Bloomington’s MA scene rewards specialization and experience. With 15% job growth over 10 years, you can climb from $38,786 to $50,000+ by focusing on high-demand areas. Here’s the path:

• Specialty Premiums: MAs in dermatology or orthopedics earn $3,000 - $5,000 more annually due to complex procedures. At M Health Fairview, a lead MA in cardiology can hit $48,000.
• Advancement Paths: Move to Lead MA (manage staff, coordinate schedules) or Clinical Coordinator (blend admin and patient care). Some transition to Healthcare Administration (requires a bachelor’s, but starts at $50,000+).
• 10-Year Outlook: With 15% growth, jobs will remain plentiful. The rise of telehealth (post-COVID) means MAs with tech skills (e.g., remote patient monitoring) will be in demand. Local hospitals are investing in value-based care, creating roles for MAs in population health.

Insider tip: Pursue CMA recertification every 60 months (cost ~$150) and add EHR certifications (Epic or Cerner) to stay competitive. Many employers offer continuing education—use it!

The Verdict: Is Bloomington Right for You?

Bloomington is a solid choice for MAs seeking stability, growth, and a balanced lifestyle. It’s not as dynamic as downtown Minneapolis, but it’s affordable, accessible, and packed with healthcare jobs. Here’s a quick pros/cons table:

Pros	Cons
Above-average salary ($38,786 median) and 15% job growth	Cost of living is 4.5% above national average—rent eats into take-home pay
Diverse employer base (hospitals, clinics, retail health)	Car-dependent; public transit is limited outside core areas
Strategic location near airport and highways for easy travel	Winters are harsh—commute can be chaotic in snow
Strong community with healthcare networking events	Less cultural buzz compared to Minneapolis or St. Paul
Opportunities for specialization and advancement	Entry-level pay is tight if you have student loans

Final Recommendation: If you’re a certified MA with 1-2 years of experience, Bloomington is a yes—especially if you value job security and a manageable pace. For new graduates, it’s a great launchpad: start in a clinic like MinuteClinic, then move to a hospital system. If you’re seeking high-energy urban life, consider Minneapolis instead. But for most MAs, Bloomington offers a realistic path to a sustainable career.

FAQs

Q: Do I need prior experience to get an MA job in Bloomington?
A: Not always. Entry-level roles exist at retail clinics (e.g., MinuteClinic) and some hospital systems. However, **mid-level jobs (paying $37,500+) often require 1-2 years’ experience. Internships during training help.

Q: How competitive is the job market?
A: With 174 jobs in the metro and 15% growth, it’s competitive but not cutthroat. Highlight EHR skills and phlebotomy certification to stand out. Apply to 10-15 jobs for a solid callback rate.

Q: Can I commute from Minneapolis?
A: Yes, but it’s not ideal. The drive from downtown Mpls to Bloomington can take 25-40 minutes in traffic. Public transit (Green Line LRT + bus) adds time. Living closer (e.g., Richfield) is smarter for work-life balance.

Q: What’s the best way to network locally?
A: Join the Minnesota Medical Assistants Association (MMAA)—they host events in the Twin Cities. Also, volunteer at health fairs in Bloomington (e.g., at the MOA) to meet employers.

Q: Are there part-time MA roles?
A: Absolutely. Many clinics (e.g., HealthPartners) offer part-time positions with benefits prorated. Great for students or those with family commitments. Pay is similar per hour ($18.65), but you’ll lose some stability.

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for salary data; Minnesota Board of Medical Practice for licensing; Zillow and RentCafe for housing costs; Local job postings from Indeed and LinkedIn (2023-2024).