Dental Assistant Salary in New Jersey
Based on 10K+ workers in New Jersey
Median Annual Salary (NJ)
$49,390
$23.75/hr
vs National Average
$49,100
+0.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$39K – $64K
10K employed in New Jersey
The median Dental Assistant salary in New Jersey is $49,390 per year, which translates to approximately $24 per hour. This figure is slightly above the national average, indicating a competitive market for these professionals within the Garden State. Prospective dental assistants can expect a salary range from $38,660 to $64,200 annually.
Several factors influence the Dental Assistant salary in New Jersey. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned assistants typically earning higher wages. Location within New Jersey can also impact pay, as can the size and type of dental practice. Additional certifications or specialized skills may also command a higher salary.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant in New Jersey
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,660 |
| 25th percentile | $45,970 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $49,390 |
| 75th percentile | $61,290 |
| 90th percentile | $64,200 |
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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New Jersey) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,390 |
| 2026 (projected) | $50,872 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New Jersey Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,390 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $50,872 | $50,573 |
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level in New Jersey
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $45,970 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $49,390 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $61,290 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $64,200 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Dental Assistant Salaries in New Jersey
How other high-demand occupations in New Jersey compare to Dental Assistant ($49,390 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in NJ | $482,700 | +877.3% | $232.07/hr |
| Surgeon in NJ | $437,890 | +786.6% | $210.52/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in NJ | $315,340 | +538.5% | $151.61/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in NJ | $292,170 | +491.6% | $140.47/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in NJ | $291,350 | +489.9% | $140.07/hr |
| Cardiologist in NJ | $286,540 | +480.2% | $137.76/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in NJ | $228,870 | +363.4% | $110.03/hr |
| Pediatrician in NJ | $201,560 | +308.1% | $96.90/hr |
| Psychiatrist in NJ | $194,070 | +292.9% | $93.30/hr |
| Dentist in NJ | $171,330 | +246.9% | $82.37/hr |
| Physician Assistant in NJ | $165,690 | +235.5% | $79.66/hr |
| Podiatrist in NJ | $160,300 | +224.6% | $77.07/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Dental Assistant in New Jersey?
- The median salary for a Dental Assistant in New Jersey is $49,390 per year, or about $24 per hour. This is 0.6% higher than the national average for the profession.
What is the typical salary range for Dental Assistants in New Jersey?
- In New Jersey, the salary range for Dental Assistants generally falls between $38,660 and $64,200 annually. This range reflects variations in experience and other contributing factors.
How does experience affect a Dental Assistant's salary in New Jersey?
- While exact figures vary, more experienced Dental Assistants in New Jersey tend to earn at the higher end of the $38,660 to $64,200 salary range. Entry-level positions would likely be closer to the lower end.
Is the Dental Assistant salary in New Jersey higher than the national average?
- Yes, the Dental Assistant salary in New Jersey is slightly higher than the national average, by approximately 0.6%. The median salary of $49,390 per year reflects this competitive rate.