Medical Assistant in Cheyenne, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Cheyenne Stands

As a local who’s watched the healthcare scene in Cheyenne evolve over the last decade, the first thing you need to know is that our salaries sit in an interesting middle ground. They aren’t the highest in the nation, but they’re competitive within Wyoming, and the cost of living is what makes them work. The median salary for a Medical Assistant (MA) in Cheyenne is $37,225/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.9/hour. That’s slightly below the national average of $38,270/year, but the real story is in the local context.

When I talk to MAs at local clinics, they often compare Cheyenne to larger metro areas. While a MA in Denver might see a higher gross income, the difference gets eaten up by a housing market that’s nearly double our cost. Here in Cheyenne, that $17.9/hour can feel like a livable wage, especially when you factor in our low state taxes and affordable rent.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Like most healthcare professions, your pay band is heavily influenced by experience and the specific setting you’re in. A MA at a busy orthopedic surgery center will command a different rate than one at a rural family practice. Here’s a realistic breakdown based on local job postings and conversations with hiring managers:

Experience Level	Average Annual Salary	Typical Local Setting
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$32,000 - $35,000	Family Practice, Community Health
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)	$37,000 - $41,000	Urgent Care, Multi-Specialty Clinics
Senior (6-10 yrs)	$42,000 - $48,000	Hospital Outpatient, Specialty Clinics (e.g., Ortho, Cardio)
Expert/Specialist (10+ yrs)	$48,000+	Lead MA, Practice Manager, High-Volume Pediatrics

Comparison to Other WY Cities

Wyoming is a big state with micro-economies. Cheyenne, as the capital and largest metro (population 65,163), is the main hub for healthcare employment. However, it’s important to see how it stacks up against other cities in the state.

City	Median Salary (MA)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Key Employer Notes
Cheyenne	$37,225	90.9	State capital, major hospital systems, diverse clinics.
Casper	$36,800	92.1	Second-largest city, strong hospital (Banner) presence.
Laramie	$35,500	91.5	University town (UW), seasonal fluctuations.
Gillette	$36,500	93.5	Energy boom/bust cycle, heavy on occupational health.

Cheyenne’s salary is right in the sweet spot—it’s the highest of the major cities, but its cost of living index (90.9) is also slightly better than Casper’s and Gillette’s. For a MA, this means Cheyenne offers the best combination of earning potential and affordability in the state.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

So, you’re looking at $37,225/year. Let’s break this down into a real monthly budget for Cheyenne. Wyoming has no state income tax, which is a significant boost. Your federal taxes and FICA will be the primary deductions.

Let’s assume a single filer with no dependents. After federal taxes and FICA (7.65%), your take-home pay would be roughly $2,500 - $2,600 per month. Now, let’s layer in the cost of living.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Cheyenne is $917/month. This can vary, but it gives us a solid baseline. If you find something in a slightly older building or a bit outside the core, you might find it for $850. If you want a new build in a popular area, it could be $1,050+.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (on $37,225 salary)

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (Cheyenne)	Notes & Insider Tips
Take-Home Pay	~$2,550	After federal taxes & FICA. No state income tax.
Rent (1BR Avg)	$917	Look for rentals on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or local property management cos (like Cheyenne Apartments).
Utilities	$150 - $200	Includes gas, electric, water, trash. Winter heating bills can spike.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350 - $500	Essential. Public transit is limited. Insurance is moderate.
Groceries	$250 - $300	Shop at Albertsons, Safeway, or the Farmers' Market (summer).
Health Insurance	Varies	If employer-sponsored, it's a huge benefit. If not, factor in $200-$300.
Misc. & Savings	$200 - $400	Everything else—phone, internet, fun, savings.

Bottom Line: You can live comfortably on this salary, but it’s tight. There’s not a huge margin for luxury spending. The key is managing your biggest variable: housing. Finding a place under $900/month frees up significant cash.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

The median home price in Cheyenne is hovering around $320,000 - $350,000. On a $37,225 salary, a traditional mortgage is out of reach. However, there are paths.

1. Veterans Affairs (VA) Loans: Cheyenne has a significant military population (F.E. Warren AFB). If you’re a veteran or active duty, a VA loan with 0% down is a game-changer.
2. USDA Rural Development Loans: Parts of Laramie County and nearby areas qualify for 0% down payment loans. This is a fantastic program for first-time buyers in our region.
3. Time: Building a career to move from $37,225 to the $45,000+ range (senior level) dramatically improves buying power.

Insider Tip: Many locals rent for 1-2 years, build savings, and then use a combination of these programs to buy. Don’t rush into homeownership; the market is stable but not appreciating at a breakneck pace like major coastal cities.

Where the Jobs Are: Cheyenne's Major Employers

Cheyenne’s healthcare ecosystem is centered around a few key players. There are 130 MA jobs in the metro area (approx.), and they’re concentrated here:

1. Cheyenne Regional Medical Center (CRMC): The largest hospital in the region, part of the Cheyenne Regional Healthcare System. They operate ER, med/surg, and numerous outpatient clinics (e.g., Orthopedics, Cardiology). Hiring Trend: Constant need for MAs in both inpatient and outpatient settings. They often post jobs directly on their career portal.

2. Banner Health (Wyoming Medical Center): Now part of the Cheyenne Regional system, but historically a major employer. It focuses on specialty care and outpatient procedures. Hiring Trend: Strong need for MAs with experience in surgical assisting or specialty clinic management.

3. Peak Health & Wellness: A large, multi-specialty clinic group with locations across Cheyenne and Laramie. They offer family medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN, and more. Hiring Trend: This is a prime location for new grads. They have a high volume of patients and frequently hire in waves.

4. Cheyenne Health & Wellness: Another key outpatient clinic. Focus on integrated care. Hiring Trend: Stable, long-term positions. Less turnover than some hospital settings.

5. Mountain West Medical Services / Cheyenne Medical Specialists: These are smaller, privately-owned specialty practices (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology, orthopedics). Hiring Trend: They often seek MAs with 2-3 years of experience who are proficient in specific specialty workflows. Pay can be slightly higher than primary care.

6. Private Family Practices: Dozens of smaller clinics (e.g., Cheyenne Family Doctors, Cheyenne Medical Associates). Hiring Trend: These are excellent for work-life balance. Hours are typically M-F, 8-5, with no weekends or holidays. Check local newspapers like the Wyoming Tribune Eagle for postings.

7. Federal Occupational Health (FOH) at F.E. Warren AFB: Provides healthcare services to military personnel and families. Hiring Trend: Requires U.S. citizenship and often a background check. Pay is competitive, and benefits are excellent.

Insider Tip: Get on LinkedIn and connect with “Cheyenne Regional Medical Center” and “Peak Health & Wellness.” Many jobs are posted internally first. Also, the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services has a “Healthcare Career Pathways” section that lists openings.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming’s requirements are straightforward but specific. You cannot simply move here and start working as an MA.

1. Credentialing: Wyoming does not have a state-specific MA license. Instead, you must hold a national certification from one of the following:

   • AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants) - CMA (AAMA)
   • AMT (American Medical Technologists) - RMA (AMT)
   • NHA (National Healthcareer Association) - CCMA
   • NCCT (National Center for Competency Testing) - NCMA

2. The Process:

   • If you’re new: Enroll in an accredited MA program (CAAHEP or ABHES). Programs can be 9-12 months. Expect costs of $3,000 - $8,000.
   • After graduation, sit for your exam. Study time is 1-3 months.
   • Once certified, you can apply for jobs in Cheyenne. No state board application is needed.

3. Timeline: From starting school to being job-ready: 12-18 months. If you’re already certified, you can start applying immediately.

4. Special Note: If you hold a compact RN or LPN license from another compact state, you can work in Wyoming without additional endorsement. This doesn’t apply to MAs, but it’s good to know if you’re considering a nursing path later.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Where you live will affect your commute, social life, and rent. Here’s a local’s guide:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Why It’s a Good Fit
Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, vibrant, older charm. 5-10 min drive to most clinics/hospitals.	$1,050 - $1,200	For those who want a social scene, local bars, and the Farmers' Market. Parking can be a pain.
South Cheyenne (Sunrise, Iron Creek)	Suburban, family-friendly, newer homes. 15-20 min commute to downtown hospitals.	$900 - $1,000	Great for young professionals wanting space and quiet. Many new apartment complexes.
West Cheyenne (Cole Creek, F.E. Warren Area)	Mix of older homes and new builds. Close to the base. 10-15 min commute.	$850 - $950	Affordable and convenient. The area is growing fast with new retail.
East Cheyenne (Near the Airport)	More rural feel, lower density. 15-20 min commute to hospital.	$800 - $900	Best for someone who doesn’t mind driving and wants the lowest rent.
North Cheyenne (Capitol Ave North)	Older, established neighborhood. 10-15 min commute.	$875 - $975	A hidden gem for renters. Mature neighborhoods with character.

Insider Tip: Avoid the immediate area around Warren Air Force Base for your first rental if you’re not military—parking and traffic can be congested during shift changes. The South and West sides offer the best balance of affordability and modern amenities.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 15% 10-year job growth for MAs in Cheyenne is solid, driven by an aging population and healthcare expansion. But growth isn’t just about more jobs; it’s about moving up.

Specialty Premiums:

• Surgical Tech/Assistant: MAs who scrub in for procedures in orthopedics or general surgery can earn 10-15% more. You often need additional on-the-job training.
• Phlebotomy & EKG Certification: If your program didn’t cover this, get certified. It’s a huge plus for hospital and urgent care jobs.
• Medical Coding/Billing: Some MAs take night classes to get certified in medical coding. This can lead to hybrid MA/coding roles or a full transition to an office manager position ($50,000+).

Advancement Paths:

1. Lead MA: Oversee other MAs in a clinic. Requires strong organizational skills.
2. Clinical Supervisor: Manages a department (e.g., all outpatient surgery staff). Often requires an Associate’s degree or 5+ years of experience.
3. Practice Manager: The pinnacle for many. Requires business acumen, experience, and often a Bachelor’s degree (not always mandatory). Salary range: $55,000 - $75,000+.
4. Further Education: Many MAs in Cheyenne use their experience as a springboard to become LPNs or RNs. The Wyoming Nurses Association has partnerships with local colleges (like Laramie County Community College) for bridge programs.

10-Year Outlook: The demand is real. With a low unemployment rate and a stable population, MAs who are certified, reliable, and willing to learn will have strong job security. The key is to specialize early and never stop learning.

The Verdict: Is Cheyenne Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary stretches further here than in most places.	Lower Absolute Pay: The $37,225 median is lower than national averages.
Strong Job Market: Consistent demand for MAs with 15% growth.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: It’s a state capital, but still a small city.
No State Income Tax: Keeps more of your paycheck.	Car Dependent: You need a reliable vehicle.
Outdoor Access: Unbeatable access to mountains, hiking, and skiing.	Weather: Winters are harsh, long, and windy. Summers are hot and dry.
Friendly Community: Easy to meet people, especially in healthcare circles.	Isolation: Denver is 2.5 hours away. For major events, you travel.
Manageable Commute: 5-20 minutes to work is the norm.	Air Quality: In summer, wildfire smoke can be an issue.

Final Recommendation:
Cheyenne is an excellent choice for a Medical Assistant who values lifestyle and affordability over maximum salary potential. It’s ideal for someone who wants a stable career, a low-stress environment, and the ability to own a home or live comfortably without roommates. It’s not the place for someone seeking the energy of a major metro or who wants to hustle for the highest possible income. If you’re a practical, outdoorsy person who’s certified and ready to work, Cheyenne will welcome you with open arms and a manageable cost of living.

FAQs

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for a new MA in Cheyenne?
A: Finding affordable housing. The rental market is competitive. Start your search 60 days before you move. Use local Facebook groups like "Cheyenne Rentals" for the best leads.

Q: Do I need a car?
A: Absolutely. Public transportation (Cheyenne Transit) exists but is not reliable for shift work. A car also lets you explore the incredible surrounding landscape.

Q: Is it hard to get a job if I’m not from Wyoming?
A: No. Cheyenne’s healthcare system relies on recruiting from out of state. Your certification is what matters. Highlight any experience, even in a different healthcare setting.

Q: What’s the weather really like?
A: Prepare for all four seasons. Winters average 20°F but can drop to -20°F. Wind is a constant. Summers are dry and warm (80s-90s). A good winter coat is non-negotiable.

Q: Are there networking opportunities?
A: Yes. The Wyoming Medical Assistants Association (WYMAA) has occasional meetings. Also, attend the annual Wyoming Healthcare Conference (often in Cheyenne or Casper). It’s a great place to meet employers.