Medical Assistant in Racine, WI

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Medical Assistants considering a move to Racine, Wisconsin.

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The Salary Picture: Where Racine Stands

As a local, I can tell you that healthcare is a major engine in Racine, but it’s essential to look at the numbers with a clear eye. The medical field here offers stability, but the compensation reflects the region's overall cost of living. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local wage surveys, the financial landscape for Medical Assistants in Racine looks like this.

The median salary for a Medical Assistant in Racine is $37,695 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.12. This figure sits just below the national average of $38,270, a common trend for Midwest metro areas where the cost of living provides some breathing room. For comparison, Medical Assistants in Milwaukee often see salaries closer to $40,000, but the rent and daily expenses are notably higher. The Racine metro area supports approximately 153 jobs for this role, with a robust 10-year job growth projection of 15%—well above the national average for many professions. This growth is primarily driven by the aging population and the expansion of outpatient care services.

To give you a clearer picture of earning potential based on experience, here’s a breakdown:

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary (Racine)
Entry-Level	0 - 2 years	$32,000 - $36,000
Mid-Career	2 - 5 years	$37,000 - $42,000
Senior/Lead	5 - 10 years	$42,000 - $48,000
Expert/Specialty	10+ years	$48,000 - $54,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and BLS data trends for the Racine metro area. Specializing in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, or working as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) can push you toward the higher end.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Salary is just one part of the equation. As a local, I’ve seen many people move here for a job and then struggle with the budgeting because they didn’t factor in the full picture. Let’s break down the monthly finances for an MA earning the median salary of $37,695.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Based on $37,695 Annual Salary)

• Gross Monthly Pay: $3,141
• Estimated Taxes (Fed, State, FICA): -$580 (Approx. 18.5% for this bracket)
• Net Monthly Pay (Take-Home): $2,561

Monthly Expenses:

• Average 1BR Rent in Racine: -$842
• Utilities (Heat, Electric, Internet): -$150
• Groceries: -$350
• Car Payment/Insurance: -$300 (Public transit is limited; a car is a necessity)
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): -$150
• Miscellaneous/Personal: -$300
• Total Estimated Expenses: -$2,092

Remaining Monthly Surplus: $469

This surplus is manageable but leaves little room for aggressive savings, large student loan payments, or unexpected emergencies. Renting is clearly the most viable option in the short term.

Can they afford to buy a home?
With a surplus of roughly $470 per month, saving for a down payment is a slow process. However, Racine’s housing market is more accessible than most major metros. The median home value in Racine County is approximately $220,000. To secure a conventional loan, you’d typically need a 20% down payment ($44,000). At the current savings rate, that’s over 7 years of dedicated saving. While homeownership isn't an immediate goal for most entry-level MAs, it becomes a realistic target with career advancement (moving into the $42,000+ range) and careful financial planning over 5-10 years.

Where the Jobs Are: Racine's Major Employers

The healthcare job market in Racine is anchored by a few key players. As someone who follows local employment trends, I can tell you that these institutions are the primary source of MA jobs. Here’s who you should be looking at:

1. Aurora Health Care (now part of Advocate Health): This is the largest employer in the region. Their Aurora Medical Center in Kenosha (just north of Racine) and multiple Aurora QuickCare clinics in Racine itself (like on Durand Ave and Washington Ave) are constant sources of hiring. They have a massive network, offering opportunities to move between specialties or locations.

2. Ascension Wisconsin: Ascension operates Ascension All Saints Hospital in downtown Racine. It’s a Level III Trauma Center and a major hub for inpatient and outpatient care. Their clinics, particularly in primary care and orthopedics (like the Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin clinics), are also frequent employers of MAs.

3. Racine Community Health Center: Located near the I-94 corridor, this FQHC (Federally Qualified Health Center) serves a diverse patient population. It’s an excellent place for new MAs to gain broad primary care experience in a community-focused setting. Hiring is steady due to grant funding and high patient volume.

4. The Racine County Health Department: While not a clinical hospital, the Health Department employs MAs for community health programs, immunization clinics, and public health initiatives. It’s a great public-sector option with regular hours and good benefits.

5. Private Specialty Practices: Numerous private practices in Racine, especially in orthopedics, cardiology, and dermatology, hire MAs. Key areas to search are around the Racine Medical Center complex and along Washington Ave. These roles often offer more predictable schedules than hospital settings.

Insider Tip: Hiring trends show a strong preference for candidates with Electronic Health Record (EHR) experience, particularly with Epic or Cerner, which are used extensively by Aurora and Ascension. Certifications (CMA, RMA, CCMA) are often required or strongly preferred, especially for hospital-based roles.

Getting Licensed in WI

Wisconsin has clear, straightforward requirements for Medical Assistants, which is a relief compared to some states. The process is manageable and relatively quick.

The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) oversees licensure. While the state does not issue a specific "Medical Assistant License," it requires that MAs perform clinical duties under the direct supervision of a licensed physician, physician assistant (PA), or advanced practice nurse prescriber (APNP).

The key credential most employers look for is certification from a nationally recognized agency. The most common are:

• 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).

Costs and Timeline:

• Training Program: An accredited program typically costs $2,000 - $10,000 and takes 9-12 months (certificate/diploma) or 18-24 months (Associate degree). Local options include Gateway Technical College (with campuses in Racine, Kenosha, and Elkhorn) and Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC).
• Certification Exam: Exam fees range from $120 - $250, depending on the certifying body.
• Background Check: Wisconsin requires a background check for all healthcare workers, costing approximately $40 - $60.

Total Estimated Cost (Training + Certification): $2,500 - $12,000+

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Enroll in an accredited program: 1-3 months (application, financial aid).
2. Complete the program: 9-18 months.
3. Prepare for and pass certification exam: 1-3 months post-graduation.
4. Apply for jobs: You can start applying during your final semester. Most employers will hire you pending successful certification.

Insider Tip: Gateway Technical College is a fantastic local resource. Their program is well-regarded by local employers, and they often have partnerships with Aurora and Ascension for clinical rotations, which can lead directly to a job offer.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Where you live in Racine impacts your commute, budget, and lifestyle. As a local, I can break down the best areas for working MAs.

1. Downtown Racine: Ideal for those who want walkability and character.

   • Vibe: Historic, with a growing arts and food scene. Close to the lakefront and the Racine Art Museum.
   • Commute: Excellent if you work at Ascension All Saints Hospital. A 5-10 minute drive, or even walkable for some.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR. Older buildings with charm, but check for updated amenities.

2. Uptown (North of Downtown): A quiet, residential choice.

   • Vibe: Family-friendly, with tree-lined streets and more space. Close to Lockwood Park for recreation.
   • Commute: Easy access to I-94 for jobs at Aurora clinics or Ascension. A 10-15 minute drive to most major employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000/month. You often get more square footage here.

3. The North Side (near I-94 & Hwy 31): The commuter’s choice.

   • Vibe: Modern apartment complexes, strip malls, and easy access to everything. Less "neighborhoody" but extremely convenient.
   • Commute: Prime location for Aurora Medical Center Kenosha and downtown Milwaukee jobs. Direct highway access.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100/month. Newer builds with amenities like pools and gyms.

4. Mount Pleasant (Southwest Racine County): Suburban comfort.

   • Vibe: Quiet, suburban feel with shopping centers (like the Festival Foods plaza) and newer housing developments.
   • Commute: A 15-20 minute drive to Racine’s core hospitals. Ideal for those who drive to Aurora or Ascension from the west.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200/month. Often includes more modern features.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-94 during morning and evening rush hour can add 10-15 minutes to your commute, especially between Milwaukee and Kenosha. If you work in Kenosha but live in Racine’s north side, you’ll be going against the main traffic flow, which is a plus.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Starting as an MA in Racine is a solid foundation, but the long-term earning power depends on specialization and advancement.

Specialty Premiums:

• Cardiology & Orthopedics: These are major specialties in Racine (thanks to large practices and hospital departments). MAs here often earn 5-10% above the median, putting them in the $39,000 - $42,000 range early on.
• Dermatology & Ophthalmology: Private practices in these fields are growing. They may offer slightly higher base pay but sometimes fewer benefits.
• Certification: Holding an active CMA (AAMA) credential can command a $1,000 - $2,000 annual premium over uncertified MAs at major systems like Aurora and Ascension.

Advancement Paths:

1. Lead MA / Office Manager: After 5+ years, you can supervise other MAs or manage a practice’s daily operations. Salary can reach $45,000 - $55,000.
2. Clinical Research Coordinator: With additional training, MAs can work in clinical trials at research sites (e.g., at Aurora’s research department). This path often offers higher salaries and a different pace.
3. Transition to PA or Nursing: Many MAs in Racine use their experience as a springboard. Gateway Technical College and Carthage College offer bridge programs. An MA with 2-3 years of experience is a strong applicant for PA or nursing school.

10-Year Outlook:
With 15% job growth, the demand remains strong. In 10 years, a senior MA in a specialty role in Racine could realistically earn $55,000 - $65,000, especially if they take on leadership or teaching roles. The key is to specialize and pursue continuous education.

The Verdict: Is Racine Right for You?

This isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons from a local perspective.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes further here than in Milwaukee or Chicago.	Lower Ceiling: Salaries are lower than national averages for MAs in major metros.
Strong Job Market: Growing healthcare sector with 15% projected growth and stable employers.	Limited Public Transit: A car is an absolute necessity, adding to monthly costs.
Manageable Commute: Short drives to work in most neighborhoods; no gridlock like bigger cities.	Less "Big City" Vibe: Nightlife and cultural activities are more limited compared to Milwaukee.
Path to Homeownership: Realistic possibility after career advancement, unlike in many coastal cities.	Seasonal Winters: Cold, snowy winters can be a lifestyle adjustment for those from warmer climates.
Gateway Location: Easy access to Milwaukee and Chicago for weekend trips or specialized care.	Economic Ties: The local economy can be sensitive to manufacturing trends, though healthcare is more stable.

Final Recommendation:
Racine is an excellent choice for Medical Assistants who prioritize affordability, job stability, and a manageable lifestyle. It’s ideal for those just starting their careers or MAs looking to lay down roots and eventually buy a home. If you’re seeking the highest possible salary or a vibrant, fast-paced urban environment, you might look to Milwaukee or Chicago—but you’ll immediately feel the pinch in your rent and commute. For most MAs, Racine offers a balanced, sustainable path forward.

FAQs

1. Do I need a certification to work as an MA in Racine?
While Wisconsin law doesn’t mandate a specific state license, the vast majority of employers, especially Aurora and Ascension, require or strongly prefer a national certification (CMA, RMA, NCMA). It significantly increases your hireability and earning potential.

2. Is the job market competitive?
With 153 jobs in a relatively small metro, competition exists but is not fierce. Having a certification, EHR experience, and a completed clinical rotation at a local hospital will put you ahead of the pack. The high job growth rate means there are opportunities for newcomers.

3. What’s the weather like, and how does it affect my commute?
Racine has four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy (average snowfall: 40-45 inches). A reliable vehicle with front-wheel or all-wheel drive is essential. Snow can slow down commutes, especially on I-94, so plan for a 15-20 minute buffer on winter mornings.

4. Can I live in Racine and commute to Milwaukee for a higher salary?
Yes, many do. The commute is about 30-45 minutes by car. A higher Milwaukee salary might be offset by higher taxes and potentially higher rent if you live closer to the city. You’d need to calculate if the net financial gain is worth the time and gas costs.

5. Are there part-time or per-diem MA jobs available?
Yes, especially in outpatient clinics and private practices. Hospitals also offer per-diem positions for MA coverage. These are great for students, those with other commitments, or MAs looking to supplement their income. Pay for per-diem roles is often slightly higher per hour to compensate for lack of benefits.