Dental Assistant Salary in Virginia
Based on 11K+ workers in Virginia
Median Annual Salary (VA)
$46,670
$22.44/hr
vs National Average
$49,100
-4.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $59K
11K employed in Virginia
The median Dental Assistant salary in Virginia is $46,670 per year, which translates to approximately $22 per hour. This figure is 4.9% lower than the national average for dental assistants. Virginia employs around 10,760 dental assistants, indicating a significant presence in the healthcare sector.
Several factors can influence the Dental Assistant salary in Virginia. Experience level, geographic location within the state, and the specific type of dental practice, such as a general dentist's office versus a specialized clinic, can all play a role. Additional certifications or specialized skills may also command higher compensation.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,720 |
| 25th percentile | $39,160 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $46,670 |
| 75th percentile | $53,040 |
| 90th percentile | $58,910 |
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 Virginia 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 Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,670 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,070 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Virginia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,670 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,070 | $50,573 |
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level in Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,160 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $46,670 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $53,040 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $58,910 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Dental Assistant Salaries in Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in Virginia compare to Dental Assistant ($46,670 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anesthesiologist in VA | $488,310 | +946.3% | $234.76/hr |
| Cardiologist in VA | $461,450 | +888.8% | $221.85/hr |
| Radiologist in VA | $376,270 | +706.2% | $180.90/hr |
| Surgeon in VA | $360,510 | +672.5% | $173.32/hr |
| Psychiatrist in VA | $295,010 | +532.1% | $141.83/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in VA | $282,410 | +505.1% | $135.77/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in VA | $252,110 | +440.2% | $121.21/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in VA | $222,630 | +377.0% | $107.03/hr |
| Dentist in VA | $197,110 | +322.3% | $94.76/hr |
| Pediatrician in VA | $195,940 | +319.8% | $94.20/hr |
| Pharmacist in VA | $144,060 | +208.7% | $69.26/hr |
| Physician Assistant in VA | $135,940 | +191.3% | $65.36/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Dental Assistant in Virginia?
- The median salary for a Dental Assistant in Virginia is $46,670 annually, or about $22 per hour. This is slightly below the national average, with salaries typically falling between $37,720 and $58,910.
How does a Dental Assistant's pay in Virginia compare to the rest of the country?
- Dental Assistants in Virginia earn, on average, 4.9% less than their counterparts nationwide. The median salary in Virginia is $46,670, while the national median is higher.
What is the salary range for Dental Assistants in Virginia?
- In Virginia, the salary range for Dental Assistants typically falls between $37,720 for entry-level positions and $58,910 for experienced professionals. The median salary sits comfortably in the middle at $46,670 per year.
How many Dental Assistants are employed in Virginia?
- Virginia is home to approximately 10,760 employed Dental Assistants. This number reflects the demand for these essential healthcare support roles within the state.