Healthcare
Dental Assistant Salary (2025)
Dental assistants support dentists during procedures.
$42,510
Median Annual
$20/hr
Hourly Rate
$30,000
Entry Level
$58,000
Senior Level
Salary Range
$30,000
$58,000
Median: $42,510 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Dental Assistants
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $60,000 | +41% |
| California | $59,000 | +39% |
| New York | $54,000 | +27% |
| Alaska | $53,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $53,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $51,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $50,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $49,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Dental Assistant
Most Dental Assistant positions require: Postsecondary certificate. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Want to become a Dental Assistant? Browse accredited Postsecondary certificate programs.
Browse Programs →Dental Assistant Salary by State
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