Dental Assistant Salary in Mississippi
Based on 3K+ workers in Mississippi
Median Annual Salary (MS)
$39,160
$18.83/hr
vs National Average
$49,100
-20.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$31K – $59K
3K employed in Mississippi
The median Dental Assistant salary in Mississippi is $39,160 per year, which is approximately $19 per hour. This figure is 20.2% lower than the national average for Dental Assistants. With 3,080 individuals employed in this role across the state, Mississippi offers a significant number of opportunities.
Several factors can influence a Dental Assistant salary in Mississippi. Experience level is a primary driver, with more seasoned professionals typically earning more. Location within Mississippi, the specific type and size of the dental practice, and any additional certifications or specializations can also impact overall compensation.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant in Mississippi
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30,650 |
| 25th percentile | $36,240 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $39,160 |
| 75th percentile | $47,450 |
| 90th percentile | $58,620 |
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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Mississippi) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,160 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,335 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Mississippi Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,160 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,335 | $50,573 |
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level in Mississippi
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,240 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $39,160 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $47,450 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $58,620 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Dental Assistant Salaries in Mississippi
How other high-demand occupations in Mississippi compare to Dental Assistant ($39,160 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Medicine Physician in MS | $325,610 | +731.5% | $156.54/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in MS | $252,960 | +546.0% | $121.62/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in MS | $235,630 | +501.7% | $113.28/hr |
| Psychiatrist in MS | $213,680 | +445.7% | $102.73/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in MS | $198,410 | +406.7% | $95.39/hr |
| Pediatrician in MS | $183,650 | +369.0% | $88.29/hr |
| Surgeon in MS | $180,420 | +360.7% | $86.74/hr |
| Podiatrist in MS | $164,410 | +319.8% | $79.04/hr |
| Dentist in MS | $143,660 | +266.9% | $69.07/hr |
| Pharmacist in MS | $133,230 | +240.2% | $64.05/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in MS | $124,730 | +218.5% | $59.97/hr |
| Optometrist in MS | $108,070 | +176.0% | $51.96/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Dental Assistant in Mississippi?
- In Mississippi, the salary range for a Dental Assistant typically falls between $30,650 and $58,620 annually. This means that while the median salary is $39,160, there is a notable spread in earnings based on various factors.
How does the average Dental Assistant pay in Mississippi compare to the national average?
- The average Dental Assistant salary in Mississippi is 20.2% lower than the national average. This suggests that, on average, professionals in this role in Mississippi earn less than their counterparts in other parts of the United States.
How many Dental Assistants are employed in Mississippi?
- There are approximately 3,080 Dental Assistants employed across Mississippi. This indicates a consistent demand for these professionals within the state's dental industry.
Is $19 an hour a good wage for a Dental Assistant in Mississippi?
- Earning $19 per hour, which equates to a median annual salary of $39,160, places a Dental Assistant at the midpoint of earnings in Mississippi. While it reflects the state's median, it is important to remember this is 20.2% below the national average.