Dentist Salary in the United States
Based on 121K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$175,707
$84.475/hr
▲ 1.4% vs 2024Salary Range
$124K – $320K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
121K
workers nationwide
Dentist salary in the United States reflects a well-compensated healthcare profession. The median annual salary for dentists reaches $173,305, positioning the field among higher-paying occupations. With approximately 107,160 dentists currently employed across the country, the profession maintains steady demand and competitive compensation levels.
Several factors influence earning potential for dental professionals. Geographic location, years of experience, and practice ownership significantly affect income, with specialists typically earning more than general practitioners. Additionally, the type of dental practice, patient demographics, and local market conditions shape salary ranges, which span from $130,800 to $231,900 annually. Educational credentials and continuing specialization also play important roles in determining individual compensation.
Salary Distribution — Dentist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $124,200 |
| 25th percentile | $129,910 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $175,707 |
| 75th percentile | $279,870 |
| 90th percentile | $320,440 |
Dentist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Dentist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska | $230,990 | +31.5% | 310 |
| 2 | North Dakota | $220,660 | +25.6% | 260 |
| 3 | Minnesota | $219,200 | +24.8% | 2K |
| 4 | Tennessee | $215,290 | +22.5% | 2K |
| 5 | Oregon | $211,690 | +20.5% | 2K |
| 6 | Maine | $209,200 | +19.1% | 310 |
| 7 | North Carolina | $207,000 | +17.8% | 4K |
| 8 | Georgia | $206,760 | +17.7% | 3K |
| 9 | Vermont | $204,960 | +16.6% | 240 |
| 10 | Missouri | $204,960 | +16.6% | 2K |
Historical Salary Trend — Dentist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $160,183 |
| 2023 | $168,417 |
| 2024 | $173,305 |
| 2025 | $175,707 |
Dentist Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do dentists make per hour in the United States?
- Dentists in the United States earn a median hourly rate of $83/hour. This translates to the median annual salary of $173,305, making it a lucrative career for dental professionals.
What is the salary range for dentists in the US?
- Dentist salaries in the United States range from $130,800 to $231,900 per year, depending on factors such as experience, location, and practice type. This wide range shows significant earning potential for those at the top of the profession.
Which city pays dentists the most in America?
- Vermont is the top paying location for dentists in the United States, with an average salary of $230,990 per year. This represents some of the highest dental compensation available in the country.
Is dentistry a good paying job in the US?
- Yes, dentistry is a well-compensated profession in the US, with approximately 107,160 dentists employed and a median salary of $173,305 annually. The profession offers strong earning potential, with top earners making over $231,900 per year.