Surgical Assistant Salary 2025: $66,800 Median, 5% Growth, and Best-Paying States
Surgical Assistants earn a median $66,800 per year, according to the latest BLS data (mean $72,710, about $32/hour). The typical range spans from $39,690 at the 10th percentile to $107,610 at the 90th. With 22,270 workers nationwide and a projected 5.1% growth rate, demand is faster than average.
Pay varies widely by location. District of Columbia tops the list at $123,390, followed by Arizona ($111,170), Colorado ($107,440), Nevada ($100,820), and New Jersey ($90,710). At the low end, Utah ($44,990), Alabama ($41,710), and Oklahoma ($40,160) pay significantly less.
How much Surgical Assistants earn
The national median salary for Surgical Assistants is $66,800, meaning half earn more and half less. The mean hourly wage is about $32, but experienced professionals in high-paying settings can exceed $107,610. Entry-level positions often start around $39,690.
Earnings depend on experience, specialization, and employer type. Hospitals and outpatient care centers tend to pay higher wages than physician offices.
- Median: $66,800 (mean $72,710, ~$32/hr)
- 10th percentile: $39,690
- 90th percentile: $107,610
Pay by state
Location is a major factor in Surgical Assistant compensation. The District of Columbia pays more than any state, with an annual mean wage of $123,390. Arizona ($111,170), Colorado ($107,440), and Nevada ($100,820) also offer six-figure averages. New Jersey rounds out the top five at $90,710.
At the other end, Utah ($44,990), Alabama ($41,710), and Oklahoma ($40,160) have the lowest average salaries. If you're willing to relocate, aiming for one of the top-paying states can significantly boost your earnings.
How to become a Surgical Assistant
Most Surgical Assistants complete a postsecondary certificate or associate degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Common paths include surgical assisting or surgical technology programs, often taking 1-2 years.
- Complete an accredited program in surgical assisting or surgical technology.
- Obtain certification: either Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) or Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).
- Many employers also require Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations or on-the-job training; some states have specific licensure requirements.
Job outlook
Employment of Surgical Assistants is projected to grow 5.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 1,600 job openings each year, largely due to the need to replace workers who retire or change fields.
An aging population drives demand for more surgeries, and Surgical Assistants are increasingly used to improve operating room efficiency. Those with formal training and certification will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Surgical Assistant do?
A Surgical Assistant helps surgeons during operations by holding instruments, suturing wounds, controlling bleeding, and performing other tasks to keep the procedure running smoothly. They work under the surgeon's direction in sterile environments.
How long does it take to become a Surgical Assistant?
Most programs take 1 to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate or an associate degree. Certification exams can be taken after completing an accredited program.
What is the highest-paying state for Surgical Assistants?
According to BLS data, the District of Columbia pays the highest average salary at $123,390 per year. Arizona ($111,170), Colorado ($107,440), and Nevada ($100,820) also offer top pay.
Is Surgical Assistant a growing career?
Yes. The BLS projects 5.1% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. This is driven by an aging population and increasing surgical volume.
Can I become a Surgical Assistant without a degree?
Most employers require at least a certificate from an accredited program. While some states allow on-the-job training, formal education and certification greatly improve job prospects and earning potential.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Surgical Assistants data.