Dental Assistant Salary in Arkansas
Based on 3K+ workers in Arkansas
Median Annual Salary (AR)
$42,830
$20.59/hr
vs National Average
$49,100
-12.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$35K – $48K
3K employed in Arkansas
The median Dental Assistant salary in Arkansas is $42,830 annually, which translates to about $21 per hour. This figure is 12.8% lower than the national average, indicating a different compensation landscape for the role within the state. Currently, there are approximately 2,950 individuals employed as Dental Assistants in Arkansas.
Several factors can influence a Dental Assistant salary in Arkansas. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often earning higher wages. The specific location within Arkansas, the size and type of dental practice, and any additional certifications or specializations can also impact overall earning potential, pushing salaries within the typical range of $35,060 to $48,330.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant in Arkansas
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $35,060 |
| 25th percentile | $36,790 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $42,830 |
| 75th percentile | $46,730 |
| 90th percentile | $48,330 |
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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Arkansas) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $42,830 |
| 2026 (projected) | $44,115 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Arkansas Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $42,830 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $44,115 | $50,573 |
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level in Arkansas
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,790 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $42,830 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $46,730 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $48,330 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Dental Assistant Salaries in Arkansas
How other high-demand occupations in Arkansas compare to Dental Assistant ($42,830 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surgeon in AR | $254,940 | +495.2% | $122.57/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in AR | $233,130 | +444.3% | $112.08/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in AR | $224,280 | +423.7% | $107.83/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in AR | $215,820 | +403.9% | $103.76/hr |
| Dentist in AR | $178,930 | +317.8% | $86.02/hr |
| Pediatrician in AR | $160,440 | +274.6% | $77.13/hr |
| Pharmacist in AR | $136,060 | +217.7% | $65.41/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in AR | $125,660 | +193.4% | $60.41/hr |
| Psychiatrist in AR | $124,750 | +191.3% | $59.98/hr |
| Optometrist in AR | $124,470 | +190.6% | $59.84/hr |
| Physician Assistant in AR | $118,430 | +176.5% | $56.94/hr |
| Veterinarian in AR | $107,710 | +151.5% | $51.78/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Dental Assistant in Arkansas?
- The salary range for Dental Assistants in Arkansas generally falls between $35,060 and $48,330 per year. This means that most professionals in this role can expect to earn within these bounds, depending on various influencing factors.
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
- The median Dental Assistant salary in Arkansas is 12.8% lower than the national average. The state's median annual salary is $42,830, while the national median is higher.
What is the average hourly pay for a Dental Assistant in Arkansas?
- For Dental Assistants in Arkansas, the median hourly wage is approximately $21. This is derived from the annual median salary of $42,830, providing an hourly perspective on compensation within the state.
How many Dental Assistants are employed in Arkansas?
- There are an estimated 2,950 Dental Assistants currently employed in Arkansas. This number reflects the overall demand and presence of this profession within the state's workforce.