Candidate guide
Physician Assistant Salary by State: How to Compare Opportunities
By Molly Salinas · October 22, 2026 · 4 min read
Compensation is one useful starting point, not a complete picture of a career decision. The figures below are BLS estimates for people already employed in each state—not promises from a specific employer. Use them to frame a conversation about base pay, schedule, call, productivity expectations, benefits, staffing and growth.
When you compare opportunities, ask for the details that change the real value of the role: patient volume, administrative time, coverage model, onboarding, paid time off, credentialing support and whether the stated range is base compensation or total compensation.
Highest mean pay by state
| State | Mean annual wage | Median annual wage |
|---|---|---|
| California | $169,110 | $165,650 |
| Washington | $164,430 | $164,360 |
| New Jersey | $162,100 | $165,690 |
| Oregon | $155,300 | $155,780 |
| New York | $155,150 | $160,880 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 state estimates.
A recruiter can help you evaluate the parts a salary table cannot show: how a team operates, what success looks like in the first year, and whether the work fits the life you want outside the clinic or hospital.