Medical Assistant in Sioux Falls, SD

The Salary Picture: Where Sioux Falls Stands

As a local who’s watched the healthcare scene in Sioux Falls evolve over the last two decades, I can tell you the numbers tell a compelling story. The median salary for a Medical Assistant in the Sioux Falls metro area is $37,156/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.86/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $38,270/year, but the lower cost of living here more than makes up for that gap.

What’s interesting is the job market itself. The metro area supports 412 Medical Assistant positions, and the 10-year job growth projection sits at 15%—a healthy rate that signals steady demand, especially with our aging population and expanding healthcare networks. It’s not booming like some coastal cities, but it’s reliable.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in Sioux Falls:

Experience Level	Average Annual Salary	Typical Settings
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $35,000	Urgent care, small private practices
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	Hospital outpatient clinics, multi-specialty groups
Senior (6-10 years)	$40,000 - $45,000	Specialty clinics (cardiology, orthopedics), lead MA roles
Expert (10+ years)	$45,000 - $50,000+	Management, education, or specialized roles (e.g., surgical MAs)

Compared to other South Dakota cities, Sioux Falls is the clear leader. Rapid City’s median is closer to $34,500, and smaller markets like Aberdeen or Watertown often hover around $32,000. The higher pay here reflects the concentration of major employers and specialty practices.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base salary. Many Sioux Falls employers—especially Avera and Sanford—offer shift differentials (an extra $2-4/hour for evenings or weekends) and sign-on bonuses, particularly for MAs willing to work in urgent care or surgical departments.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about what $37,156/year looks like in your pocket. After federal taxes, South Dakota’s state income tax (which is 0%—a huge advantage), and FICA, your monthly take-home pay will be roughly $2,550. Now, let’s layer in Sioux Falls’ cost of living.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is $884/month. The overall cost of living index is 90.3 (US average = 100), meaning goods and services are about 10% cheaper than the national average. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a Medical Assistant earning the median:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$884	Varies by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities (Heat/Electric/Water)	$150	Higher in winter due to heating costs
Groceries	$300	Sioux Falls has competitive grocery prices
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Public transit is limited; a car is essential
Health Insurance (Employer Plan)	$100	Typically covered 70-80% by employer
Miscellaneous (Phone, etc.)	$200
Total Essentials	$1,984
Remaining Discretionary	~$566	For savings, entertainment, etc.

Can you afford to buy a home? In short, yes—but it requires planning. The median home price in Sioux Falls is around $285,000. With a $37,156 salary, a 20% down payment ($57,000) is a steep hurdle. However, first-time homebuyer programs like the South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s (SDHDA) Low-Income Homebuyer Assistance Program can help with down payments as low as 3-5%. Given your stable income and the city’s low property taxes (around 1.2%), homeownership is achievable within 3-5 years for most MAs who budget carefully.

Insider Tip: Many local employers offer tuition reimbursement for continuing education. If you use that to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), your salary can jump 10-15%, making homeownership much faster.

Where the Jobs Are: Sioux Falls's Major Employers

Sioux Falls’ healthcare ecosystem is dominated by two giants and a supportive network of specialty clinics and smaller practices. Here’s where the 412 jobs are concentrated:

1. Sanford Health: The largest employer in the region. They’re constantly hiring MAs for their main downtown campus and satellite clinics in suburbs like Tea and Harrisburg. Hiring trends show a strong need for MAs in orthopedics, neurology, and their new surgical centers. They offer excellent benefits and clear pathways to specialties.

2. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center: Avera’s flagship hospital and its vast network of clinics are another major source of jobs. They have a particularly high demand for MAs in their primary care and specialty clinics (cardiology, oncology). Avera is known for its robust internal training programs for new MAs.

3. Sioux Falls Surgery Center: As an independent surgical facility, they need MAs with sterile processing and surgical assisting skills. These roles often pay at the mid-to-senior level and are a great way to specialize.

4. Lewis Family Medicine & Urgent Care: This large, multi-location practice is a prime employer for entry-level MAs. They offer a fast-paced environment and excellent training in urgent care procedures.

5. Great Plains Cardiology: A premier specialty clinic that often hires MAs with at least 1-2 years of experience. They focus on EKGs, patient education, and assisting with stress tests.

6. The Cottages at Cedar Hills: A long-term care facility that needs MAs for resident care. While not a traditional hospital role, it offers stable hours and a different patient population.

Insider Tip: Many of these employers post jobs on their websites first, before listing on Indeed or LinkedIn. Set up job alerts directly on Sanford and Avera’s career pages. Also, consider temp-to-hire agencies like Aerotek or Kelly Services, which have strong relationships with these larger health systems.

Getting Licensed in SD

South Dakota has a straightforward process for Medical Assistants, but a key distinction is that it’s a “title protection” state. This means you cannot use the title “Medical Assistant” unless you’re certified through a recognized national organization. The state itself does not issue a separate license.

Here’s the step-by-step path:

1. Complete an Accredited Program: Enroll in a CAAHEP or ABHES-accredited Medical Assisting program. Local options include:

   • Southeast Technical College (Sioux Falls campus): A 16-month program, costing approximately $8,500-$10,000.
   • National American University (Sioux Falls): Offers an associate degree.
   • Online/Hybrid Programs: Be sure to verify clinical placement availability in Sioux Falls before enrolling.

2. Earn National Certification: After graduation, you must pass one of the following exams:

   • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Exam fee: $125-$150.
   • Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Exam fee: $120.
   • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Exam fee: $159.

3. Background Check: Most employers will require a criminal background check and drug screening, typically costing $50-$75.

Timeline: From enrolling in a program to landing your first job, expect a 16-24 month timeline. A full-time student can complete a diploma program in about a year, followed by 3-6 months for job hunting and credentialing.

Insider Tip: Sanford Health and Avera often partner with Southeast Tech for clinical rotations. Performing well during your rotation is one of the best ways to secure a job offer before you even graduate.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Your commute and lifestyle matter. Sioux Falls is a driving city, but neighborhoods near major employers can save you time and gas. Here are four areas to consider, with rent estimates for a 1BR:

1. Downtown / McKennan Park: Ideal if you work at Avera McKennan or the downtown Sanford campus. You’re walking distance from parks, restaurants, and the city’s cultural core. Rent: $950 - $1,100/month. Parking can be a challenge.

2. South Sioux Falls (41st Street Corridor): This is the commercial hub, close to Sanford’s main campus and numerous clinics. It’s a mix of apartments and townhomes with easy highway access. Rent: $850 - $950/month.

3. Northwest Sioux Falls (Tea/Harrisburg): Rapidly growing suburbs with newer apartment complexes. Great for families, but expect a 15-20 minute commute to most hospitals. Rent: $800 - $900/month.

4. East Sioux Falls (Near the Airport): More affordable, with a quieter, suburban feel. Commuting to hospitals takes about 10-15 minutes via I-29. Rent: $750 - $850/month.

5. The Cathedral District: A historic, walkable neighborhood near downtown with charming older homes and apartments. Good for a more urban feel without the downtown price tag. Rent: $800 - $950/month.

Insider Tip: If you’re moving here without a job lined up, consider a short-term lease (3-6 months) in a central location like the 41st Street corridor. Once you start working, you can move to a neighborhood that reduces your commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Sioux Falls offers solid advancement paths for MAs who are proactive. The 15% 10-year job growth isn’t just for entry-level roles; it’s for specialized and advanced positions.

• Specialty Premiums: MAs in high-demand specialties can earn $2-5/hour more than the median. Top-paying specialties locally include:

  • Surgical Assisting: $42,000 - $48,000
  • Cardiology: $40,000 - $45,000
  • Dermatology: $39,000 - $44,000

• Advancement Paths:

  • Lead MA / Clinical Coordinator: Overseeing a clinic’s MA staff. Requires 5+ years experience and leadership skills.
  • Phlebotomy or EKG Specialist: Get additional certifications to focus on these high-demand skills.
  • Medical Office Manager: Often requires an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration.
  • Registered Nurse (RN): Many MAs use their experience as a springboard into nursing programs. Sioux Falls has excellent ADN and BSN programs (Southeast Tech, Augustana, USD).

• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain strong due to an aging population and the expansion of both Sanford and Avera into surrounding communities (e.g., Harrisburg, Tea, Harrisburg). The trend is toward more MAs in outpatient and specialty settings rather than inpatient hospital floors.

Insider Tip: Join the South Dakota Society of Medical Assistants (SDSMA). Their annual conference is a great networking event to learn about new specialties and meet hiring managers.

The Verdict: Is Sioux Falls Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes further here.	Harsh Winters: Snow and cold from November to March.
Stable Job Market: Two major health systems provide job security.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a necessity.
Zero State Income Tax: More take-home pay.	Cultural/Scene: Smaller city feel; fewer niche entertainment options.
Manageable Commutes: Even during rush hour, drives are short.	Salary Ceiling: Top-end pay is lower than national averages for specialists.
Friendly, Collaborative Medical Community: It’s easy to network.	Rapid Growth: Can lead to traffic and rising housing costs.

Final Recommendation: Sioux Falls is an excellent choice for Medical Assistants who value job stability, affordability, and a manageable pace of life. It’s ideal for those starting their career or looking to specialize in a supportive environment. If you’re motivated by a high-energy, fast-paced urban scene and chasing top-tier specialist salaries, you might look elsewhere. But for a balanced career with a clear path to homeownership and professional growth, Sioux Falls is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Do I need certification to work as a Medical Assistant in Sioux Falls?
Yes. South Dakota is a title-protection state. You must hold a national certification (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) to use the title “Medical Assistant.” Most employers won’t hire uncertified individuals for MA roles, though some may hire you as a “Clinical Assistant” while you get certified.

2. How competitive is the job market for new MAs?
It’s competitive but not cutthroat. The 15% growth rate means there are opportunities. The key is to get your clinical hours through a local program (like Southeast Tech) and leverage those connections. Apply widely, but prioritize employers known for training new grads, like Lewis Family Medicine.

3. What’s the weather really like, and how does it affect healthcare work?
Winters are long and cold, with average lows in the teens (°F) and significant snowfall. This can lead to increased demand for urgent care and primary care visits (for flu, slips/falls). Employers are generally understanding about weather-related delays, but you’ll need reliable transportation. Hospitals and clinics are well-staffed and equipped for winter weather.

4. Can I live comfortably in Sioux Falls on a Medical Assistant’s salary?
Absolutely. With the median salary of $37,156 and the low cost of living index of 90.3, you can afford a decent 1BR apartment, a reliable car, and still have money for savings and entertainment. Budgeting is key, but financial stress is much lower here than in larger cities.

5. What’s the best way to network in the Sioux Falls healthcare community?
While the city is friendly, networking requires a bit more effort than in major metros. Attend events hosted by the Sioux Falls Area Medical Society or the South Dakota Society of Medical Assistants. Also, don’t underestimate the power of a well-written LinkedIn message to a hiring manager at Sanford or Avera—mentioning your specific interest in their clinic’s specialty shows you’ve done your homework.