Healthcare Alaska (AK) Rank #4 of 50

Dental Assistant Salary in Alaska

The median dental assistant salary in Alaska is $54,838 per year, which is 29.0% above the national median of $42,510.

Median Salary
$54,838
vs National
+$12,328
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Dental Assistant Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for dental assistant compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for dental assistants seeking high pay. At $54,838 per year, dental assistants in Alaska earn $12,328 more than the national median of $42,510.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $54,838 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $44,224.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: dental assistants at the 10th percentile earn $38,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $77,400 — a $38,700 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alaska for this role is Juneau, where the median reaches $59,514.

Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dental assistants across the country.

Dental Assistant Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $39,990, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,820 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,990
+$8,990 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$55,470
+$12,470 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$74,820
+$16,820 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $38,700
25th Percentile $45,150
Median (50th) $54,838
75th Percentile $67,080
90th Percentile $77,400

Dental Assistant Salary by City in Alaska

The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Alaska include Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Sitka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Alaska

Education

Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Alaska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Assistant Salary in Alaska

How much does a Dental Assistant make in Alaska? ▼
The median dental assistant salary in Alaska is $54,838 per year, which is 29.0% above the national median of $42,510. Salaries range from $38,700 (10th percentile) to $77,400 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dental Assistant make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $54,838, a dental assistant in Alaska earns approximately $26 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for dental assistants? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for dental assistant pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level dental assistants earn $39,990, while senior professionals earn $74,820.
How does Alaska compare to other states for dental assistant salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dental assistants is Hawaii at $75,668. Alaska's median of $54,838 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($62,065) and Massachusetts ($60,789).
What is the entry-level dental assistant salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level dental assistant in Alaska earns approximately $39,990 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $55,470. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $74,820.
What city in Alaska pays dental assistants the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for dental assistants, with a median salary of $59,514. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.