Medical Assistant in Hattiesburg, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Hattiesburg Stands

As a Medical Assistant (MA) in Hattiesburg, your earning potential is modest but livable, especially when you factor in the city's low cost of living. Let’s get straight to the numbers.

The median salary for a Medical Assistant in Hattiesburg is $37,041 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.81. This figure is slightly below the national average of $38,270 per year, a difference that's common for many healthcare roles in the Deep South. However, this "discount" is largely offset by Hattiesburg's affordability, which we'll explore later.

Your experience level is the biggest factor in your paycheck. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career in the Hattiesburg metro area.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Field	Annual Salary Range (Hattiesburg)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$32,000 - $38,000	Phlebotomy, basic vitals, patient intake, EHR data entry.
Mid-Career	2-5 years	$38,000 - $42,000	Complex procedures, patient education, inventory management, training new staff.
Senior/Team Lead	5-10 years	$42,000 - $47,000	Specializing in a clinic type (e.g., cardiology), leading a MA team, quality assurance.
Expert/Managerial	10+ years	$47,000+	Managing a multi-clinic department, developing protocols, training programs.

Insider Tip: The top 10% of MAs in the Pine Belt region, often those with certifications in specialty areas like ophthalmology or dermatology, can push toward the $50,000 mark, especially if they work for one of the larger hospital systems or private specialty practices.

How Hattiesburg Compares to Other Mississippi Cities

While Hattiesburg's median salary of $37,041 is lower than the national average, it holds its own within the state. Jackson, the state capital and a larger metro, has a slightly higher median for MAs (around $38,500), but the cost of living there is also higher. Gulfport-Biloxi, driven by the coastal tourism and healthcare needs, sees a similar or slightly higher pay scale. However, Hattiesburg's unique value proposition is its combination of low living costs and a stable, growing healthcare sector anchored by two major hospitals and a major university. For an MA who isn't chasing the absolute highest dollar but prioritizes a balanced, affordable lifestyle, Hattiesburg is a strong contender.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Earning $37,041 sounds like a solid starting point, but what does it mean for your monthly budget? Let's run the numbers for a single MA earning the median salary.

Assumptions:

• Gross Annual Salary: $37,041
• Estimated Deductions (Taxes, FICA, Insurance): ~22% (This is an estimate; actual will vary based on benefits, filing status, and withholdings.)
• Monthly Gross: $3,086.75
• Estimated Take-Home Pay: ~$2,408/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Take-Home Pay: $2,408
• Rent (Average 1BR): -$906
• Utilities (Est.): -$150 (Electric, water, internet)
• Groceries: -$300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas (Est.): -$350 (Hattiesburg is car-dependent)
• Health Insurance (if not employer-paid): -$150
• Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal, Savings): -$552

Total Expenses: ~$2,408

Can they afford to buy a home?
It's a stretch on a single MA income. The median home price in Hattiesburg is around $180,000. A 20% down payment is $36,000, which is more than a year's salary. A typical mortgage payment (PITI) could be $1,100-$1,300/month, which would consume 45-54% of your take-home pay—far above the recommended 30%. For a single MA, renting is the more financially prudent choice in the early years. However, two MAs or an MA with a partner in another field could comfortably enter the housing market. This is a key consideration for long-term career planning in the area.

Where the Jobs Are: Hattiesburg's Major Employers

Hattiesburg's healthcare sector is the city's economic backbone. The job market for MAs is stable, with 97 jobs actively listed in the metro at any given time (per BLS data), and a 10-year job growth projection of 15%—keeping pace with national trends. Here are the primary employers driving this demand.

1. Forrest General Hospital (Hattiesburg Healthcare): The largest employer in the region. They have a constant need for MAs in their emergency department, outpatient clinics (cardiology, orthopedics, oncology), and main hospital floors. Hiring trends favor candidates who are comfortable with a fast-paced, acute-care environment.

2. Hattiesburg Clinic: A massive multi-specialty group with over 40 locations across the Pine Belt. They are arguably the single largest private employer of MAs in the area. They hire for dozens of specialties—from allergists to urologists. Their hiring is robust and they offer internal mobility between departments.

3. Southern Mississippi Medical Center (SMMC): Part of the larger regional system, SMMC is another major hub for healthcare jobs. They have a strong focus on family medicine, pediatrics, and internal medicine, which are core areas for Medical Assistants.

4. The University of Southern Mississippi (USM): While not a clinical employer, USM's nursing and allied health programs are a feeder system and partner. More importantly, the university's own health services clinic employs MAs to care for students and staff.

5. South Central Regional Medical Center (in nearby Laurel): A 15-minute drive from Hattiesburg, this hospital and its affiliated clinics are a major source of jobs. Many Hattiesburg residents commute here for the variety of specialties and the tight-knit hospital culture.

6. Specialty Private Practices: Hattiesburg has a thriving community of independent specialists (Dermatology, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, OB/GYN). These practices often hire MAs who specialize in their field and can offer a more predictable 9-to-5 schedule than a hospital setting.

Insider Tip: For the most current openings, don't just check hospital career pages. The Hattiesburg Clinic and smaller practices often post directly on their own websites or use local staffing agencies like CareerStaff Unlimited. Word-of-mouth is also powerful here; talking to MAs currently working at Forrest General can give you the inside track on which departments are expanding.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi does not require a state license to work as a Medical Assistant. However, employers almost universally require certification from a national accrediting body. This is your key to getting hired.

The Two Main Certifications:

1. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): Offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Requires graduation from an accredited program and passing a national exam. This is the most widely recognized certification.
2. Registered Medical Assistant (RMA): Offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Also requires program graduation or equivalent military training and passing an exam.

Costs to Get Certified:

• Accredited Program Tuition: $2,500 - $12,000+. Local options include Jones County Junior College (in Ellisville) and Pearl River Community College (in Poplarville), both within a reasonable commute. Online programs are also an option.
• CMA/RMA Exam Fee: $120 - $180.
• Application Fee (if required by employer): $50 - $150.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Enroll in an Accredited Program: 9-12 month certificate programs are common. Some community colleges offer 2-year associate degrees.
2. Complete Clinical Hours: Built into your program.
3. Sit for Certification Exam: Schedule and pass after graduation. You can work as an MA without certification while you study, but your job options and pay will be limited.
4. Apply for Jobs: You can start interviewing during your final semester. Many employers in Hattiesburg will hire you contingent on passing your certifying exam.

Insider Tip: If you're already a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Mississippi has a "CNA to MA" bridge program that can shorten your training time. Check with local community colleges for options.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Hattiesburg is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with a different vibe. Your choice will depend on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

• The Avenues: This historic district near downtown is full of character—think large, older homes and tree-lined streets. It's popular with young professionals and medical students/residents due to its walkable bars and restaurants. A 1-bedroom apartment here might run $850-$1,100. Commute to Forrest General or Hattiesburg Clinic is under 10 minutes.
• West Hattiesburg (near USM): A more suburban feel with newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. It's close to shopping, dining, and the university. Rent for a 1BR is similar to The Avenues, $900-$1,150. Commute to the major medical districts is 10-15 minutes, but traffic on Hardy Street can be heavy.
• Oak Grove: A highly sought-after, family-oriented area with excellent public schools. It's primarily residential with larger homes and yards. Rent is slightly higher ($950-$1,200 for a 1BR), and you'll likely need a longer commute (15-20 minutes) to the central hospital districts, but the quality of life is a major draw for many.
• Midtown/Downtown: This area is seeing a resurgence with loft-style apartments and condos. It's ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, with walkability to local coffee shops, breweries, and the historic Saenger Theatre. Rent varies widely but expect $850-$1,400+. Commute is minimal if you work downtown.
• Petal (Just South of Hattiesburg): Technically a separate city but part of the metro. It has a small-town feel, lower crime rates, and good schools. Rent is more affordable, often $750-$950 for a 1BR. The trade-off is a 15-25 minute commute to Hattiesburg's major employers, but for many, the quieter life is worth it.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the median salary of $37,041 is the starting point, your long-term earning potential in Hattiesburg is tied to specialization and advancement. The 10-year job growth of 15% ensures there will be openings, but you'll need to be strategic.

Specialty Premiums:

• Ophthalmology & Dermatology: These outpatient specialties are common in Hattiesburg and often pay 5-10% above the median due to the need for precise, technical skills (e.g., assisting with minor procedures, using specialized equipment).
• Cardiology & Orthopedics: Working in high-demand practices like those at Hattiesburg Clinic or Forrest General can lead to slightly higher pay and more structured career ladders.
• Certified Phlebotomist (CPT): Adding a phlebotomy certification is a huge advantage in any MA role, as it is a core duty in most clinics.

Advancement Paths:

1. Clinical Lead: Overseeing a team of MAs in a large clinic or hospital department.
2. Practice Manager: With additional training (often a Bachelor's degree), you can move into administrative management.
3. Medical Assistant Instructor: Teaching at a local community college or technical school with experience and certification.

10-Year Outlook: The demand in Hattiesburg will remain strong, driven by an aging population and the expansion of specialty services at both Forrest General and Hattiesburg Clinic. MAs who stay with the same employer and pursue certifications or cross-training have the best chance for wage growth. The ceiling without further education is around $50,000-$55,000 in a senior or managerial role. For significant salary jumps (to $60,000+), you would typically need to pursue a related degree, such as becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Physician Assistant (PA). Hattiesburg's universities and community colleges offer these pathways locally.

The Verdict: Is Hattiesburg Right for You?

For a Medical Assistant seeking a stable career in a community where your salary goes a long way, Hattiesburg presents a compelling case. It's a city of contrasts—historic neighborhoods and modern healthcare, Southern hospitality and professional ambition.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $37,041 median salary is more powerful here. Rent and everyday expenses are significantly below national averages.	Modest Salary Ceiling: Long-term earning potential is limited without additional education or specialization.
Stable Job Market: With 97 jobs in the metro and 15% growth, you have a clear path to employment and reasonable job security.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; a reliable vehicle is a necessity for commuting and daily life.
Strong Healthcare Network: Two major hospitals and a large multi-specialty clinic create diverse opportunities and clear career paths.	Limited Social Scene: Compared to a major city, nightlife and cultural activities are more subdued.
Manageable Pace: While busy, the pace at a Hattiesburg hospital or clinic is generally less frenetic than in a major metropolitan area.	Climate Challenges: The hot, humid summers (May-September) can be an adjustment for those from cooler climates.

Final Recommendation:
Hattiesburg is an excellent choice for Medical Assistants who prioritize work-life balance and affordability over the highest possible salary. It's ideal for new graduates looking to launch their careers, as the low cost of living reduces financial stress. It's also a great fit for experienced MAs seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing professional opportunities. If you're ambitious about maximizing your income above all else, a larger city might offer a higher ceiling, but you'll pay a steep price in rent and living expenses. For a sustainable, community-focused career, Hattiesburg is a smart, pragmatic move.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be certified to get a job as an MA in Hattiesburg?
While Mississippi has no state license, yes, you need a national certification (CMA or RMA) to be competitive. Almost every reputable employer in Hattiesburg, from Forrest General to private practices, requires it. Some may hire you as a "Medical Assistant Intern" while you complete your certification, but full-time positions will require it.

2. What's the commute like for a Medical Assistant in Hattiesburg?
For most MAs, the commute is manageable, typically 10-20 minutes. The biggest factor is avoiding the Hardy Street (US 49) corridor during rush hour, especially near the Walmart Supercenter and the USM exit. Living in a neighborhood like The Avenues or Midtown can give you a very short commute to the major downtown health employers.

3. Are there opportunities for an MA to work in a specialty clinic?
Absolutely. Hattiesburg Clinic alone employs MAs in over 40 specialties. Dermatology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and cardiology are particularly common. Gaining experience in a primary care setting first is a common path, then you can apply to specialty openings as they arise.

4. How does the cost of living compare to other Mississippi cities?
Hattiesburg is one of the most affordable cities in Mississippi for healthcare workers. While Jackson and Gulfport might offer slightly higher median salaries, their average rent and living costs are notably higher. The Cost of Living Index of 89.3 (US avg = 100) means your paycheck stretches further here than in most of the country.

5. I'm considering a move from out of state. What should I know?
First, ensure your certification is from an accredited program and is current. The job market is stable, but having your certification in hand before you arrive is a major advantage. Be prepared for the climate—invest in a good air conditioner and get used to the humidity. Finally, start your housing search a few weeks before your move; the rental market is competitive but manageable.