Dental Assistant Salary in West Virginia
Based on 1K+ workers in West Virginia
Median Annual Salary (WV)
$37,960
$18.25/hr
vs National Average
$49,100
-22.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $53K
1K employed in West Virginia
The median Dental Assistant salary in West Virginia is $37,960 per year, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national average, sitting at 22.7% less. Currently, there are about 1,290 Dental Assistants employed across the state.
Several factors can influence the Dental Assistant salary in West Virginia. Experience level is a significant driver, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. Location within the state, specific dental practice type (e.g., general dentistry vs. specialized), and additional certifications can also impact earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Dental Assistant in West Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $31,760 |
| 25th percentile | $36,360 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $37,960 |
| 75th percentile | $45,180 |
| 90th percentile | $52,630 |
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 West 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 West Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (West Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,960 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,099 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | West Virginia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,960 | $49,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,099 | $50,573 |
Dental Assistant Salary by Experience Level in West Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,360 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $37,960 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,180 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $52,630 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Dental Assistant Salaries in West Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in West Virginia compare to Dental Assistant ($37,960 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medicine Physician in WV | $491,230 | +1194.1% | $236.17/hr |
| Radiologist in WV | $471,650 | +1142.5% | $226.75/hr |
| Surgeon in WV | $468,210 | +1133.4% | $225.10/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in WV | $300,810 | +692.4% | $144.62/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in WV | $278,530 | +633.7% | $133.91/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in WV | $272,680 | +618.3% | $131.10/hr |
| Podiatrist in WV | $207,000 | +445.3% | $99.52/hr |
| Dentist in WV | $170,370 | +348.8% | $81.91/hr |
| Pediatrician in WV | $158,470 | +317.5% | $76.19/hr |
| Pharmacist in WV | $133,430 | +251.5% | $64.15/hr |
| Veterinarian in WV | $128,990 | +239.8% | $62.01/hr |
| Physician Assistant in WV | $128,610 | +238.8% | $61.83/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Dental Assistant in West Virginia?
- The median Dental Assistant salary in West Virginia is $37,960 annually. This means half of all Dental Assistants in the state earn more, and half earn less than this amount.
What is the salary range for Dental Assistants in West Virginia?
- In West Virginia, the salary for Dental Assistants typically falls between $31,760 and $52,630 per year. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end, while experienced professionals can earn towards the higher end of this spectrum.
How does the West Virginia Dental Assistant salary compare to the national average?
- Dental Assistant salaries in West Virginia are significantly lower than the national average. The median pay in West Virginia is 22.7% less than the national median salary.
How many Dental Assistants are employed in West Virginia?
- There are approximately 1,290 Dental Assistants employed throughout West Virginia. This indicates a moderate presence of this healthcare role within the state's workforce.