Pathologist Assistant Salary

2026 Salary Overview

The median average salary for a pathologist assistant in the United States is $74,993. The highest end of the salary range is $99,069 and the lowest end is $36,635. The location in which one works and the experience level a person possesses can factor into the salary paid. Someone completely new to the field may start to at $60,000 to $70,000. It is important to indicate that geographic area can factor into the salary paid.

Bonuses and Job Prospects

One of the more interesting aspects of the compensation for this position is bonuses are becoming more frequent. These bonuses may be in the form of a sign-on, retention in the position, and annual bonuses. The mere fact bonuses are being offered shows these jobs are competitive and in demand.

Education and Training Requirements

Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree plus specialized certification
Work Experience: Clinical training required
Certification: National certification through NAACLS-accredited programs

Pathologist assistants must complete a rigorous educational program that includes a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, followed by a specialized pathologist assistant program. These programs are typically 2 years in length and include both didactic coursework and extensive hands-on clinical training.

Job Outlook

Employment prospects for pathologist assistants remain strong due to the increasing demand for diagnostic services and the aging population requiring more medical testing. The specialized nature of this role and the extensive education required help maintain competitive salaries and job security.

The field continues to evolve with advances in molecular pathology and digital pathology, creating opportunities for pathologist assistants to expand their skill sets and potentially increase their earning potential.

Work Environment

Pathologist assistants typically work in hospital laboratories, independent pathology laboratories, or academic medical centers. The work environment is professional and requires attention to detail, as the results of their work directly impact patient diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Salary Trends Over Time

The chart below shows how pathologist assistant salaries have changed over the years, from 2015 to 2026. You can select a specific state to see localized trends or view the national average.

Salary by State

The following table shows pathologist assistant salary data by state, including the lowest 10%, median, highest 10%, and average salaries.