Dental Assistant Salary in Alabama
Based on 4K+ workers in Alabama
Median Annual Salary (AL)
$39,080
$18.79/hr
vs National Average
$49,100
-20.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$31K – $51K
4K employed in Alabama
The median Dental Assistant salary in Alabama is $39,080 per year, or $19 per hour. This is 20.4% lower than the national average for this profession. Currently, there are approximately 3,740 Dental Assistants employed across the state.
Several factors influence the Dental Assistant salary in Alabama. Experience level plays a significant role, with entry-level positions typically paying less than those for seasoned professionals. Location within Alabama, the size and type of dental practice, and any additional certifications held can also impact earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant in Alabama
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30,840 |
| 25th percentile | $36,190 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $39,080 |
| 75th percentile | $47,100 |
| 90th percentile | $51,400 |
Top-Paying Industries for Dental Assistant (U.S.)
Which industries pay Dental Assistants the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Dental Assistants in Alabama tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $71,800 | 50 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $55,270 | 6K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $54,260 | — |
| Manufacturing | $52,290 | 130 |
| Other Services (except Public Administration) | $50,020 | 90 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Dental Assistant in Alabama vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alabama) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,080 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,252 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alabama Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,080 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,252 | $50,573 |
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level in Alabama
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,190 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $39,080 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $47,100 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $51,400 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Dental Assistant Salaries in Alabama
How other high-demand occupations in Alabama compare to Dental Assistant ($39,080 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in AL | $519,480 | +1229.3% | $249.75/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in AL | $392,350 | +904.0% | $188.63/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in AL | $311,180 | +696.3% | $149.61/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in AL | $210,380 | +438.3% | $101.14/hr |
| Pediatrician in AL | $209,490 | +436.1% | $100.72/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in AL | $190,300 | +386.9% | $91.49/hr |
| Podiatrist in AL | $161,820 | +314.1% | $77.80/hr |
| Optometrist in AL | $145,090 | +271.3% | $69.75/hr |
| Pharmacist in AL | $134,630 | +244.5% | $64.73/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in AL | $134,550 | +244.3% | $64.69/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in AL | $105,750 | +170.6% | $50.84/hr |
| Veterinarian in AL | $105,630 | +170.3% | $50.78/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Dental Assistant in Alabama?
- The median Dental Assistant salary in Alabama is $39,080 annually, which translates to about $19 per hour. This figure represents the midpoint of all salaries, with half earning more and half earning less.
What is the salary range for Dental Assistants in Alabama?
- Most Dental Assistants in Alabama fall within a salary range of $30,840 to $51,400 per year. Those at the lower end of this range are typically entry-level, while those at the higher end have more experience or specialized skills.
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
- The Dental Assistant salary in Alabama is 20.4% lower than the national average. This means that on average, Dental Assistants in Alabama earn less than their counterparts in other states.
How many Dental Assistants are employed in Alabama?
- There are approximately 3,740 Dental Assistants currently employed in Alabama. This number reflects the demand for these skilled professionals within the state's dental industry.