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2024 Data

Physician Assistant Salary in Kansas City, MO: $123,455 (2024)

Official 2024 BLS Data | $59.35/hour | $77,188 - $174,260 range

Median Annual Salary

$123,455

5.0% vs national

Hourly Rate

$59.35

/hour

Jobs in Area

137

employed

Salary Range$77,188 - $174,260
10th %Median90th %
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) | Editorial guidelines

Compare to Other Cities

See All →

Kansas City, MO

$123,455

San Jose, CA

$180,337

$56,882 more (+46.1%)

in San Jose, CA

Physician Assistant Salary Range in Kansas City, MO

Annual Salary Range

$123k

$77k

10th percentile

$99k

25th

$145k

75th

$174k

90th percentile

Salary Breakdown by Percentile

PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Rate
10th Percentile (Entry Level)$77,188$37.11
25th Percentile$99,120$47.65
Median (50th Percentile)$123,455$59.35
75th Percentile$144,853$69.64
90th Percentile (Top Earners)$174,260$83.78
Average (Mean)$131,609$63.27

Physician Assistant Market Insights for Kansas City, MO

Compensation Overview

Physician Assistant compensation in Kansas City, MO aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $77,188 to $174,260 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.

Local Market Context

Kansas City, MO offers competitive compensation that aligns closely with national benchmarks. The Missouri economy supports a diverse range of industries, providing stable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

Career Outlook

The Physician Assistant profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 126% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.

Tips for Increasing Your Salary

  • Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 41% more than median salaries
  • Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
  • Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise

-5%

vs National Avg

-11%

vs State Avg

126%

Salary Range

137

Jobs in Area

Career Path & Salary Progression

Typical Physician Assistant salary growth in Kansas City, MO based on experience level.

🎓

Entry Level

0-2 years

10th percentile

$77,188

/year

📈

Early Career

2-5 years

25th percentile

$99,120

/year

💼

Mid Career

5-10 years

50th percentile

$123,455

/year

🎯

Senior

10-15 years

75th percentile

$144,853

/year

Expert

15+ years

90th percentile

$174,260

/year

Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.

Physician Assistant Job Market in Kansas City, MO

Where Physician Assistants Work

Physician Assistants work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.

Local Employment Landscape

Employment in this occupation is more limited in Kansas City, MO compared to larger metros. Professionals may find opportunities concentrated among fewer employers, making employer research and networking particularly valuable.

Types of Employers Hiring

Large Corporations

Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential

Small to Medium Businesses

May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities

Government Agencies

Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance

Professional Services Firms

Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers

Skills That Increase Earning Potential

Advanced certifications in your specialtyLeadership and team managementData analysis and reportingCommunication and presentation skillsIndustry-specific software proficiency

Job Search Strategy for Kansas City, MO

  • Research major employers in the Kansas City area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
  • Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to Missouri
  • Tailor your salary expectations based on the Kansas City, MO market rate of $123,455
  • Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $77,188 in this market

Physician Assistant Career Overview in Kansas City, MO

Local Employment
137
positions
Median Salary
$123,455
per year
vs National
-5%
difference
COL Index
93.1
100 = average

The job market for Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO is emerging, with approximately 137 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Physician Assistant positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Kansas City, MO. Compensation aligns closely with national benchmarks, indicating a balanced supply-demand dynamic in this market.

Kansas City, MO's diverse economy supports healthcare roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in Missouri range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.

The growth outlook for Physician Assistant positions in Kansas City, MO is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 137 current positions and a median salary of $123,455, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Kansas City, MO's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Physician Assistants will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.

Kansas City, MO offers a balanced proposition for Physician Assistants. The cost of living index of 93.1 sits near the national average, meaning the median salary of $123,455 translates to real purchasing power that closely matches the nominal figure. This makes salary comparisons with other similarly-priced metros straightforward. Physician Assistants evaluating Kansas City, MO against peer cities should focus on factors beyond raw salary numbers, including career growth opportunities, industry specialization, commute quality, and lifestyle fit.

The Healthcare field in Kansas City, MO benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Physician Assistants stay connected and advance their careers. Missouri's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Physician Assistants early in their career, Kansas City, MO offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.

Physician Assistant Compensation Deep Dive in Kansas City, MO

Entry LevelMedianTop Earners
$77,188$123,455$174,260

The salary range for Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO spans from $77,188 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $174,260 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $97,072. This 126% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $123,455 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Physician Assistant with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($99,120) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($144,853) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.

Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $4,938 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Physician Assistants should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $99,120 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $123,455 with minimal perks.

Cost of living directly impacts how far a Physician Assistant's salary goes in Kansas City, MO. With a local cost-of-living index of 93.1 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $123,455 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $132,605 in an average-cost U.S. city. This balanced cost environment means the salary figure closely reflects actual purchasing power, simplifying financial planning and comparisons with other mid-range markets.

Negotiating Physician Assistant compensation in Kansas City, MO requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($99,120 to $144,853) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, salaries track national norms, and well-prepared candidates can typically move offers 5-10% above the initial number. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Physician Assistants in this market earn between $37 and $84 per hour, with the median at $59.

Physician Assistant Career Path & Growth in Kansas City, MO

Entry
$77,188
Early Career
$99,120
Mid Career
$123,455
Experienced
$144,853
Senior
$174,260

The career trajectory for Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $77,188, while top earners reach $174,260, representing a 2.3x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Kansas City, MO's healthcare market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.

Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Kansas City, MO's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.

The skills most in demand for Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Kansas City, MO value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Physician Assistants stay competitive in Kansas City, MO's evolving job market.

More Questions About Physician Assistant Salaries in Kansas City, MO

What is the starting salary for a Physician Assistant in Kansas City, MO?

Entry-level Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO (10th percentile) earn approximately $77,188 per year, or about $6,432 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $99,120. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.

How much do experienced Physician Assistants make in Kansas City, MO?

Experienced Physician Assistants at the 75th percentile earn $144,853 annually in Kansas City, MO, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $174,260. The jump from median ($123,455) to 75th percentile represents a 17% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.

Is Kansas City, MO a good city for Physician Assistants?

Kansas City, MO offers competitive compensation that closely tracks national averages. With 137 Physician Assistant positions in the metro area, the market is smaller but can offer less competition and more personal career development. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.

How does Physician Assistant pay in Kansas City, MO compare to the national average?

The median Physician Assistant salary in Kansas City, MO is $123,455, which is 5% lower than the national median of $130,020. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $132,605, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within Missouri, Kansas City, MO ranks below some peer metros for this occupation.

What benefits do Physician Assistants typically receive in Kansas City, MO?

Beyond base salary, Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Physician Assistant earning the median of $123,455 may receive total compensation of $160,492 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.

What skills are most in demand for Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO?

Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Healthcare field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The median physician assistant salary in Kansas City, MO is $123,455 per year ($59.35/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $77,188 for entry-level positions to $174,260 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level physician assistants in Kansas City, MO typically start at around $77,188 per year ($37.11/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $123,455 within 3-5 years.

Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO earn a median hourly wage of $59.35 per hour. Hourly rates range from $37.11/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $83.78/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $77,188 and $174,260.

The median physician assistant salary of $123,455 in Kansas City, MO is slightly below the national median of $130,020 (5.0% lower). The cost of living is also 7% below average. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of physician assistants in the area earn more and half earn less.

Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO earn slightly below the national average. The local median salary of $123,455 is 5.0% lower than the national median of $130,020. The cost of living is also 7% below average. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $132,605.

The top 10% of physician assistants in Kansas City, MO earn $174,260 or more per year ($83.78/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $144,853, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost physician assistant salary in Kansas City, MO include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $123,455, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($144,853) or higher. Years of relevant experience

Kansas City, MO has a specialized job market for physician assistants, with approximately 137 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $123,455 is slightly below the national average. The cost of living is also 7% below average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your physician assistant salary to these Kansas City, MO benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $77,188, 25th percentile: $99,120, 50th percentile (median): $123,455, 75th percentile: $144,853, 90th percentile (top earners): $174,260. If you earn more than $123,455, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $123,455 median base salary, physician assistants in Kansas City, MO typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced physician assistants with 5-10 years in Kansas City, MO typically earn $144,853 (75th percentile) to $174,260 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $174,260. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $123,455.

Physician Assistants in Kansas City, MO can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($77,188) to median ($123,455) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($174,260) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $97,072 over a career.

Data Source & Methodology

Official government statistics you can trust

Primary Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program

Visit Official BLS Website

Data Year

2024

2 Years Old

Geographic Area

Kansas City

Metropolitan Statistical Area

Occupation Code

29-1071

SOC Classification

Sample Size

137

Employees Surveyed

How This Data Is Collected

The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.

Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.

Last updated: January 23, 2026

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Physician Assistant in Kansas City, MO

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Median: $123,455/yr

How Kansas City, MO Compares

vs National Average

$130,020

-5.0%

vs Missouri Average

$138,268

-10.7%

Cost-of-Living Adjusted

$132,605

+7.4%

Cost of living in Kansas City, MO is 6.9% below the national average.

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