Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) salary in Houston, TX (2026)
How much does a certified medical assistant (cma) make in Houston, TX? Pay ranges, what influences compensation, and tips for applying.
Data as of March 2026
| Source | Median | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
 Indeed | — | $18.33/hr |
Compensation snapshot
Combined from reported medians, percentile spreads, salary floors/ceilings, and hourly rates across aggregated market samples (sources not shown).
At a glance
In a medical/healthcare clinic, a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) supports clinicians by assisting with patient intake, vital signs, and basic clinical tasks. They also help manage day-to-day front/back office workflows such as scheduling and documentation.
What moves the number
- Certification Status: Holding a current CMA certification typically results in higher pay compared to non-certified medical assistants due to demonstrated validated skills.
- Experience Level: More years of experience, especially beyond 5 years, correlate with increased salaries as CMAs take on greater responsibilities and expertise.
- Work Setting and Specialty: CMAs working in specialized clinics like dermatology or oncology can earn more than those in general practice due to specialized knowledge demands.
- Geographic Location: CMAs employed in metropolitan areas such as Dallas or Austin tend to have higher salaries because of greater demand and cost of living adjustments.
Applying for this role
Highlight CMA certification and any experience with patient intake, vitals, and EHR documentation. Be ready to discuss your clinical workflow, patient communication skills, and availability for clinic hours.