What's the average salary for a PA?

What Does a Physician Assistant Earn in Los Angeles?

If you're considering a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Los Angeles, salary is likely top of mind—and the numbers are promising. While pay can vary widely depending on experience, specialty, and workplace, the typical PA in the area earns between $107,800 and $146,000 annually, representing the 25th to 75th percentile of earners. This range reflects the growing demand for skilled PAs across hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

For those further along in their careers, the outlook is even better. Top-tier PAs—landing in the 90th percentile—can make up to $169,707 per year, with some rare positions reaching as high as $191,797. On the lower end, entry-level or part-time roles may start around $63,034, but these figures often increase quickly with experience and additional certifications.

Los Angeles, with its high cost of living and robust healthcare infrastructure, tends to offer competitive compensation to attract qualified professionals. Specialties like emergency medicine, dermatology, and surgical subspecialties often command higher salaries due to the intensity and demand of the roles. Additionally, PAs working in outpatient care centers or large medical groups may see stronger benefits packages and more opportunities for advancement.

It's also worth noting that salary is only one part of the equation. Many PAs value the flexibility, shorter training period compared to physicians, and the ability to specialize without committing to years of residency. In a city like LA, where healthcare needs are diverse and growing, the role of a PA continues to expand—and so do the rewards.