Medical Assistant in Hollywood, FL

The Salary Picture: Where Hollywood Stands

As a local career analyst, I’ve watched the Medical Assistant (MA) job market in Hollywood, FL, evolve. While the city offers a vibrant healthcare sector, it’s essential to approach your career move with clear-eyed data. Hollywood isn't Miami, and it isn't Fort Lauderdale in terms of salary scales, but it offers a unique blend of accessibility and opportunity.

The median salary for a Medical Assistant in Hollywood is $39,624/year, translating to an hourly rate of $19.05/hour. This figure sits slightly above the national average of $38,270/year, which is a positive sign for the local market. However, with a Cost of Living Index of 111.8 (US avg = 100), that income stretches less here than in many parts of the country. The metro population of 153,864 supports a robust healthcare infrastructure, with 307 MA jobs currently in the metro area and a 10-year job growth projection of 15%, which is promising for long-term stability.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in Hollywood typically follow a clear progression based on experience and certifications. Here’s how you can expect your earnings to grow:

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$32,000 - $37,000
Mid-Level	2-5 years	$37,000 - $42,000
Senior-Level	5-10 years	$42,000 - $48,000
Expert/Lead	10+ years	$48,000 - $55,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and industry data. Specialized certifications (e.g., cardiology, ophthalmology) can push these figures higher.

Comparison to Other Florida Cities

How does Hollywood stack up against other major Florida markets? Let's take a look.

City	Median Annual Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Job Market Vibe
Hollywood, FL	$39,624	111.8	Steady, community-focused
Miami, FL	$40,250	127.3	High volume, high competition
Orlando, FL	$38,900	107.5	Growing, diverse specialties
Tampa, FL	$39,100	105.8	Strong hospital networks
Jacksonville, FL	$37,800	95.2	Lower cost, expanding market

Insider Tip: While Miami offers a marginally higher salary, the cost of living and commute times often negate the benefit. Hollywood provides easier access to both Miami and Fort Lauderdale jobs without the premium price tag of living in the core metro areas.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. Hollywood's cost of living is 11.8% higher than the national average, driven largely by housing. The average 1BR rent is $1,621/month. For a single earner making the median salary of $39,624, here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown.

Monthly Budget for a Single Medical Assistant (Gross: $3,302/month)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$3,302	Based on $39,624/year
Taxes (Est. 22%)	- $726	Includes federal, state (FL has no income tax), FICA
Net Take-Home Pay	$2,576	This is your starting point
Rent (1BR Avg)	- $1,621	63% of net pay – very high
Utilities	- $150	Electricity, water, internet
Car Insurance/Gas	- $250	FL has high auto insurance rates
Groceries	- $300
Health Insurance	- $150	Premium contribution
Misc / Savings	- $105	Emergency fund, entertainment
Remaining	$0	This is a zero-based budget

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a median MA salary of $39,624, homeownership in Hollywood is a significant stretch. The median home price in Broward County is around $400,000. A 20% down payment is $80,000, and a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $2,200—well over the rent budget. Verdict: Homeownership on a single MA income is challenging without a dual-income household or substantial savings. Focusing on renting in more affordable neighborhoods is the practical short-term strategy.

Where the Jobs Are: Hollywood's Major Employers

Hollywood's healthcare employment is anchored by a mix of large hospital systems, private practices, and specialty clinics. Here are the key players:

1. Memorial Hospital Miramar & Memorial Regional Hospital (Hollywood): Part of the Memorial Healthcare System, these are the largest employers for MAs in the city. They offer a wide range of specialties, from ER to outpatient surgery. Hiring is consistent, with a preference for candidates with BLS and CMA/RMA certifications. Trend: They are actively expanding their primary care networks in Hollywood.

2. Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital (Hollywood): A premier pediatric facility. MAs here often need patience and a love for kids. Pay can be slightly higher due to the specialty. They heavily recruit from local technical schools.

3. South Florida Medical Associates: A large, multi-specialty private practice group with several locations in Hollywood. They offer a more predictable 9-5 schedule compared to hospitals. Insider Tip: They value MAs with strong phlebotomy and EKG skills.

4. Broward Health Medical Center (Fort Lauderdale, but a major Hollywood employer): Many Hollywood residents work here. It's a Level I Trauma Center with immense learning opportunities. Commute can be 15-25 minutes depending on traffic.

5. Hollywood Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center: An example of a thriving specialty practice. MAs in dermatology often handle cosmetic procedures, which can come with tips and bonuses. Specialized practices often pay at the mid-to-senior range.

6. Planned Parenthood (South Florida): A consistent employer for MAs interested in sexual and reproductive health. They provide excellent training and a mission-driven environment.

7. Private Primary Care Practices: Scattered throughout Hollywood, from the Diplomat area to Hillcrest. These are often the best starting points for entry-level MAs to get hands-on experience.

Hiring Trend: There's a noticeable shift towards hiring MAs with electronic health record (EHR) proficiency, specifically Epic and Cerner, which are widely used in the major hospital systems.

Getting Licensed in FL

Florida has clear pathways to becoming a Medical Assistant. It's a "certification-friendly" state, meaning while you don't have to be certified to work, most reputable employers require it.

1. Education & Training:

• Option A: Complete an accredited MA program (9-12 months, ~$3,000-$10,000). Local schools include Atlantic Technical College (Coconut Creek) and Sheridan Technical College (Hollywood). These programs include externships, which are crucial for job placement.
• Option B: On-the-job training (harder to find without prior healthcare experience).

2. Certification (Highly Recommended):

• National Certification: The most recognized are the CMA (AAMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants and the RMA (AMT) from the American Medical Technologists. Both require passing a national exam and completing an accredited program.
• Florida-Specific: Florida does not have its own state medical assistant license. You will work under the license of the supervising physician.

3. Cost & Timeline:

• Program Cost: $3,000 - $10,000 (financial aid available).
• Exam Fee: $120 - $150.
• Timeline: From starting a program to being certified and job-ready is typically 12-18 months.

4. Key Requirement: All MAs in Florida must have a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification from the American Heart Association. This is a non-negotiable requirement for employment.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Living in Hollywood is about balancing commute, cost, and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods:

Neighborhood	Commute to Major Hospitals	1BR Rent Estimate	Vibe & Best For
Downtown Hollywood	5-10 mins to Memorial Regional	$1,450 - $1,700	Walkable, artsy, near Young Circle. Good for those who want a social scene.
Hillcrest	10-15 mins to Broward Health	$1,300 - $1,550	Quiet, residential, close to I-95. Ideal for families or those wanting a peaceful home base.
South Hollywood (Diplomat Area)	15-20 mins to all major hospitals	$1,550 - $1,850	Near the beach, newer apartments, more upscale. Popular with younger professionals.
West Park	15-20 mins to Memorial Miramar	$1,250 - $1,450	More affordable, suburban feel. A bit farther from the beach but great value.
North Hollywood	10-12 mins to Joe DiMaggio	$1,400 - $1,650	Established, family-friendly, close to parks and schools.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-95 and Stirling Road can be brutal during rush hour. If you work at Memorial Miramar, living in West Park or Miramar itself can cut your commute significantly.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 15% for MAs in the Hollywood area is strong, driven by an aging population and the expansion of outpatient services. To maximize your earning potential:

• Specialty Premiums: MAs in cardiology, ophthalmology, and orthopedics can earn 10-20% above the median. Certification in these specialties (e.g., through the AMT) is valuable.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Lead MA: Overseeing other MAs in a clinic (adds $5,000 - $8,000 to salary).
  • Office Manager: Requires additional business/ admin skills. Pay range: $45,000 - $60,000.
  • Transition to Nursing: Many MAs use their experience to become LPNs or RNs. Local hospitals often offer tuition reimbursement programs for this.
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand for MAs will remain high, but the role is becoming more tech-integrated. Those who master EHR systems, telehealth coordination, and patient data management will have the best career security and mobility.

The Verdict: Is Hollywood Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: 307 jobs and 15% growth ensure opportunities.	High Cost of Living: Rent consumes a large portion of your income.
Diverse Employers: From major hospitals to private specialties.	Traffic: Commutes can be longer than expected, especially to Fort Lauderdale.
No State Income Tax: Lets you keep more of your paycheck.	Competitive Entry-Level Market: New grads must be persistent.
Location: Easy access to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and the beaches.	Salary Ceiling: Pay scales are lower than in major coastal metros.
Pathway to Advancement: Clear routes to specialize or move into management.	Hurricane Risk: Requires preparedness and insurance.

Final Recommendation:
Hollywood, FL, is a solid choice for Medical Assistants who prioritize a stable, growing job market and a Florida lifestyle over maximizing raw salary. It's best suited for:

• New MAs looking for a variety of entry-level opportunities.
• Experienced MAs seeking a slower pace than Miami while still having access to top-tier healthcare systems.
• Those with a dual-income household to make homeownership feasible.

If you are highly specialized in a high-demand field (e.g., cardiology) or are willing to commute to Miami for a higher-paying role, Hollywood remains an excellent and affordable base of operations.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be certified to get a job in Hollywood, FL?
While Florida law does not mandate certification, virtually all reputable employers in Hollywood require a CMA, RMA, or equivalent. It's a competitive field, and certification is your best tool for securing a good position and salary.

2. What is the typical interview process like?
Expect a two-step process: an initial interview (often virtual) with HR or a hiring manager, followed by a second interview with the lead physician or practice manager. They will likely include a skills assessment (e.g., taking vitals, demonstrating an EKG). Insider Tip: Research the specific employer's EHR system and mention your willingness to train on it.

3. How is the work-life balance for MAs in Hollywood?
It varies by setting. Hospital roles (ER, inpatient) often involve 12-hour shifts, nights, and weekends. Private practices and outpatient clinics typically offer a traditional 8-5 schedule with weekends off. The trade-off is usually between schedule predictability and higher pay/benefits.

4. Can I live in Hollywood and work in Miami?
Yes, many do. The commute via I-95 or the Tri-Rail can take 30-45 minutes each way. The key is to factor in gas, tolls, and potential parking costs. If you find a higher-paying job in Miami that justifies the commute, it can be a smart financial move.

5. What's the most valuable skill for a new MA in Hollywood?
Beyond basic clinical skills, proficiency with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is paramount. Mentioning experience with Epic or Cerner on your resume, even from training, will make you stand out. Soft skills like bilingualism (English/Spanish are extremely valuable) and empathy are also highly sought after in this diverse community.

Data Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Broward County Housing Market Reports, and local job board analysis (Indeed, LinkedIn) as of late 2023.