Medical Assistant in Deltona, FL

The Salary Picture: Where Deltona Stands

As a local who’s watched the healthcare scene in Deltona evolve from a quiet bedroom community to a bustling hub between Orlando and Daytona Beach, I can tell you the numbers paint a realistic picture. For Medical Assistants (MAs) in the Deltona–DeLand–Daytona Beach metro area, the median salary is $38,120 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.33. This is incredibly close to the national average of $38,270, suggesting that the local market pays competitively for this role, even if it doesn’t have the high-water mark of major metros like Miami or Tampa.

The job market itself is steady, with approximately 197 jobs in the metro at any given time. More importantly, the 10-year job growth is projected at 15%, a healthy figure that outpaces many other regions. This growth is largely driven by the expanding senior population in Volusia County and the continued development of healthcare infrastructure to serve them.

To understand where you might fit into this landscape, let’s break it down by experience. It’s important to note that these are estimates based on local data and industry trends, as specific breakdowns aren’t always published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for such a granular metro area.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Local Context
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $35,500	Often starts in larger, high-volume practices or hospitals (like AdventHealth) where training is structured.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	This is the core of the local workforce. Specializing in a specific area (e.g., cardiac, orthopedics) can push you to the top of this range.
Senior (8-12 years)	$41,000 - $45,000	Roles often include lead MA, clinical coordinator, or MA in a specialty practice. Experience with specific EHR systems is a major plus.
Expert (13+ years)	$46,000+	Typically found in clinical management, education roles, or highly specialized surgical assisting positions.

How does Deltona compare to other Florida cities?

• Deltona/Daytona Beach Metro: $38,120 – Solid, cost-effective living.
• Orlando Metro: $39,500 (approx.) – Higher pay, but significantly higher cost of living (+25%+).
• Tampa-St. Petersburg Metro: $40,200 (approx.) – Similar story to Orlando; higher pay is offset by rent and traffic.
• Jacksonville Metro: $37,800 (approx.) – Very comparable to Deltona, with a slightly larger city feel.
• Miami-Fort Lauderdale: $41,000+ – The highest pay, but the cost of living is dramatically higher.

The takeaway? Deltona offers a "sweet spot." You won't get rich as an MA here, but your $38,120 median salary stretches much further than it would in Florida's larger, more expensive metros.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's talk real numbers. For a single filer earning $38,120/year, the take-home pay after federal, state, Social Security, and Medicare taxes is approximately $30,500-$31,500 annually, or about $2,540-$2,625 per month.

Now, let's layer in the local cost of living.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an MA in Deltona:

• Take-Home Pay: $2,580 (midpoint estimate)
• Average 1BR Rent: $1,152
• Utilities (electric, water, internet): $180
• Groceries: $300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $450 (Deltona is car-dependent; public transport is limited)
• Health Insurance Premiums (if through employer): $150 (varies)
• Miscellaneous (phone, entertainment, personal care): $250

Monthly Total Expenses: ~$2,482

This leaves a slim buffer of roughly $100/month for savings, debt repayment, or unexpected costs. It's tight but manageable, especially if you have a roommate or are in a dual-income household.

Can they afford to buy a home?
At the median salary, it's challenging but not impossible, especially compared to other Florida markets. The median home price in the Deltona metro is around $315,000 - $325,000. With a $38,120 salary, you'd be at the very top-end of affordability for a solo purchase, likely requiring a significant down payment (20%+) and minimal other debt. For a couple where both earners are in similar jobs, home ownership becomes much more feasible. This is a key reason many healthcare workers choose the area—entry into the housing market is more accessible here.

Where the Jobs Are: Deltona's Major Employers

The healthcare job market here is anchored by a few key players, with a growing number of private practices. Here’s the lay of the land:

1. AdventHealth Deltona & Daytona Beach: The 89-bed AdventHealth Deltona and the larger AdventHealth Daytona Beach are the region's primary hospital systems. They are massive employers of MAs in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Hiring is constant, and they offer structured career ladders. Insider Tip: Check their careers page for "Medical Assistant - Float Pool" positions—they offer variety and often a small pay differential.

2. Orlando Health Physicians (OHPS): This group has a significant footprint in Volusia County, with numerous family medicine, cardiology, and orthopedics clinics in the area, including locations in Debary and Orange City, which are adjacent to Deltona. They often look for MAs with experience in their specific Epic EHR system.

3. Central Florida Medical Associates: A large, multi-specialty group with locations throughout the region, including Deltona. They are a common first stop for new MAs due to their high patient volume and on-the-job training.

4. Halifax Health: While its main campus is in Daytona Beach, Halifax Health serves the entire Deltona metro. They have urgent care centers and specialty clinics that employ MAs. They are known for strong benefits and tuition reimbursement.

5. Private Specialty Practices: This is where you find niche opportunities and often higher pay. Look for practices in:

   • Orthopedics: Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center of Volusia.
   • Cardiology: Florida Cardiology Group.
   • Dermatology: Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery (a major regional employer).
     Hiring Trend: Private practices are increasingly hiring MAs with specific experience (e.g., surgical assisting for orthopedics, prior auth knowledge for derm). Certification (CMA or RMA) is often a hard requirement here.

6. Community Health Centers: The Volusia County Health Department and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) like the Neighborhood Medical Center (with locations in Daytona Beach and DeLand) serve the uninsured and underinsured. These roles offer incredible mission-driven work and are great for gaining broad clinical experience.

Getting Licensed in FL

Florida has a clear but specific path for Medical Assistants. It's critical to note: Florida is one of the few states that requires MAs to be certified or registered to perform certain tasks.

1. Credentialing: You must hold one of the following:

   • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
   • Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
   • National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
   • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

2. Specific Florida Requirements: To perform back-office tasks (taking vitals, administering medications, etc.) in a physician's office, you must be certified. To give injections or perform phlebotomy, you need additional training documented by your employer.

3. Cost & Timeline:

   • Training Program (CMA): Costs range from $1,500 - $4,000 at local technical schools (like Daytona State College) or online programs. Timeline: 9-12 months for a certificate program.
   • Certification Exam: The CMA exam fee is approximately $250.
   • Total Estimated Startup Cost: $1,750 - $4,250.
   • Process: Complete an accredited program, pass the exam, and maintain certification with continuing education (CEUs) every 5 years.

Insider Tip: Many local employers (like AdventHealth) will hire you as a "Clinical Assistant" or "Patient Care Tech" while you're in school. They often offer tuition reimbursement, allowing you to get certified on their dime. This is the most financially savvy path if you can get in.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Deltona is a sprawling, unincorporated community. Commute time is your biggest quality-of-life factor. Here’s a guide to neighborhoods:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Best For...
Deltona Lakes (Central)	The classic Deltona experience. Quiet, suburban, labyrinthine streets. Commute to AdventHealth Deltona is 10-15 mins.	$1,150 - $1,250	MAs working at AdventHealth Deltona or central private practices.
Saxon Ridge / Orange City Border	A bit more upscale, closer to I-4. 20-25 mins to Daytona hospitals, 15 mins to DeLand.	$1,200 - $1,350	Those who want easier access to both DeLand and Daytona, and don't mind a short highway commute.
DeBary	Slightly more affluent, feels more like a "town." Excellent access to 17-92 and I-4. 20 mins to Daytona, 25 mins to Orlando.	$1,250 - $1,400	MAs at Orlando Health or other clinics along I-4 corridor.
Lake Helen	Small, historic town vibe. Very quiet, community feel. 25-30 mins to major employers.	$1,000 - $1,150	Those seeking a slower pace and lower rent, willing to commute.
Edgewater/New Smyrna Beach	Beachside living (south of Daytona). Commute to Daytona hospitals is easy, but traffic can be bad to Orlando.	$1,300 - $1,500+	MAs who prioritize lifestyle and are willing to drive for work.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your $38,120 is a starting point. With strategic moves, you can significantly increase your earnings.

Specialty Premiums:

• Surgical Assisting (Orthopedics, etc.): Can add $3-5/hour.
• Ophthalmology Assisting: Highly specialized, commands a premium.
• Certified Phlebotomist/EKG Tech: Adding these skills makes you invaluable in cardiology or lab settings.
• EHR Specialist (Epic/Cerner): Becoming a "super-user" can lead to trainer roles at hospitals, paying $45,000+.

Advancement Paths:

1. Lead MA/Clinical Coordinator: Manages other MAs, schedules, and inventory. Salary jump to $42,000 - $48,000.
2. Practice Manager: Requires business/administrative courses. Can earn $50,000 - $65,000 in the region.
3. Nursing Bridge: Many MAs become RNs. Daytona State College's ADN program is a popular, affordable local option. RNs in the metro earn $65,000-$75,000.

10-Year Outlook: The 15% growth means competition for good jobs will increase. The key differentiator will be specialization and technological fluency. The trend is toward MAs who can handle more complex clinical tasks and navigate complex EHRs.

The Verdict: Is Deltona Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $38,120 goes further here than in most Florida metros.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable car. Public transit is minimal.
Stable Job Market: 197 jobs and 15% growth provide security.	Limited Nightlife/Culture: It's a suburb. For big-city amenities, you're driving to Orlando or Daytona.
Multiple Major Employers: Options from large hospitals to private practices.	Salary Ceiling: While respectable, MA salaries here won't reach the levels of major metros.
Pathway to Homeownership: Manageable with a dual-income household.	Summer Heat & Humidity: Brutal and long-lasting. AC is a non-negotiable cost.
Central Location: Easy access to beaches, Orlando, and nature (state parks).	Traffic Congestion: I-4 and 17-92 can be very busy, especially during tourist season.

Final Recommendation:
Deltona is an excellent choice for the pragmatic Medical Assistant. If your priority is a stable career with a manageable cost of living, a clear path to certification, and the realistic possibility of buying a home, Deltona delivers. It's less ideal if you're seeking a high-energy urban lifestyle or are unwilling to own and maintain a car. For the early-career MA who wants to build a foundation, it's a smart, data-driven move.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be certified to work as an MA in Deltona?
Yes. Florida law requires certification or registration for MAs performing back-office clinical duties. Most employers will not consider uncertified applicants for MA roles. You may find "Medical Assistant" jobs listed, but they will require certification.

2. What's the commute like from Deltona to the major hospitals?

• AdventHealth Deltona: 10-15 minutes.
• AdventHealth Daytona Beach: 20-25 minutes via I-4.
• Halifax Health (Daytona): 20-25 minutes.
• Orlando Health Physicians (DeBary/Orange City): 10-20 minutes.
  Traffic on I-4 can add 10-15 minutes during peak hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).

3. Is it easy to switch from a hospital to a private practice, or vice versa?
Yes, it's very common. The skills are transferable. Hospitals offer structure and benefits; practices often offer more predictable hours and potentially higher pay for experienced MAs. Many MAs start in hospitals for the training and then move to private practice for lifestyle reasons.

4. How competitive is the job market for new MAs?
It's competitive but not impossible. With 197 jobs in the metro, new postings happen weekly. Having a certification (especially CMA), basic EHR exposure, and any externship experience is crucial. Being willing to work in less "glamorous" settings (e.g., FQHC, urgent care) for your first year can be a strategic move to get your foot in the door.

5. What's the best way to network for jobs in the Deltona area?
The local professional organization is the Central Florida Chapter of the AAMA. Attend meetings (often in Daytona or DeLand). Also, connect with recruiters from AdventHealth and Halifax Health on LinkedIn. For private practices, a direct, polite cold-call or visit to the clinic with a resume can sometimes work, as they may not always post positions publicly.