As the healthcare industry continues to expand, the role of a Physician Assistant (PA) remains one of the most in-demand and well-compensated professions. In 2026, the average PA salary reflects this growing need, influenced by factors such as location, experience, certifications, and education. This article provides a comprehensive look at the average PA salary in 2026, along with insights into job market trends, benefits, and what impacts overall earning potential.
Average PA Salary in 2026
As of 2026, the average salary for a Physician Assistant in the United States is approximately $121,500 per year, or about $58.41 per hour. This marks a modest but steady increase from previous years, driven by rising demand for healthcare providers, especially in underserved and rural areas.
Key Salary Factors
Several elements influence a PA’s earning potential in 2026:
Experience Level: One of the most significant factors.
Geographic Location: Urban vs. rural settings show pay disparities.
Specialty Area: Fields like dermatology, emergency medicine, and surgery often pay more.
Education and Certifications: Advanced certifications can lead to salary boosts.
Work Setting: Hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics vary in compensation.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $97,000 – $104,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $110,000 – $118,000 |
| Experienced (6-10 years) | $122,000 – $130,000 |
| Senior-Level (10+ years) | $135,000 – $145,000 |
With experience, PAs often receive more autonomy and may qualify for leadership roles such as Senior Lead Navigator or Clinical Team Supervisor, which further increase earning potential.
Salary by Work Setting
Outpatient Care Centers: $124,000+
Hospitals (General Medical & Surgical): $120,500
Private Physician Offices: $118,000
Educational Services: $108,000
Government/Public Health: $115,000
Geographic Impact on Salary
States with higher costs of living or physician shortages often offer higher salaries. In 2026, the highest-paying states for PAs include:
California
New York
Alaska
Connecticut
Texas
Meanwhile, rural areas may offer loan forgiveness or sign-on bonuses to attract qualified professionals, balancing out the lower base salaries.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While a Master’s degree is the minimum requirement, additional certifications can significantly impact salary, including:
CAQ (Certificate of Added Qualifications): In specialties like psychiatry, pediatrics, or cardiovascular surgery.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS): Especially beneficial for emergency and critical care settings.
Leadership Training: Supports transitions into roles like Senior Lead Navigator or practice manager.
Job Market Trends in 2026
Growth Rate: The PA profession continues to grow at a projected 27% rate through 2030, according to industry projections.
Telemedicine Expansion: Remote care opportunities may affect salaries, particularly in rural regions.
Specialization Demand: Dermatology, surgery, and psychiatry are seeing rising demand, driving up wages in those areas.
Work-Life Balance: Increasing employer emphasis on flexibility and wellness benefits.
Benefits and Total Compensation
In addition to salary, PAs often enjoy robust benefits packages:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans (401k with matching)
Paid continuing education and CME stipends
Malpractice insurance
Paid vacation and sick time
These can add an extra 15–20% to the overall compensation value.
Take-Home Pay Example: $103K Salary
A PA with a $103,000 salary can expect the following approximate take-home:
Federal Income Tax: ~$15,000
State Tax (varies): ~$4,000 (average)
FICA (Social Security + Medicare): ~$7,800
Estimated Take-Home Pay: $76,000–$78,000 annually, or around $6,300/month
Actual figures vary depending on benefits, deductions, and location.
Conclusion: Is a PA Career Worth It in 2026?
Absolutely. Physician Assistants enjoy strong job security, high earning potential, and increasing autonomy in the clinical environment. With the right mix of education, certifications, and experience, PAs can expect not just a competitive salary, but a fulfilling career in healthcare.