Dental Assistant Salary in Arkansas
The median dental assistant salary in Arkansas is $34,858 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $42,510.
Dental Assistant Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for dental assistant compensation. Dental Assistant salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $34,858 per year, dental assistants in Arkansas earn $7,652 less than the national median of $42,510.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $34,858 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $41,498 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: dental assistants at the 10th percentile earn $24,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $49,200 — a $24,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $36,559.
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 Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $25,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $47,560 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Earning $34,858? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,700 |
| Median (50th) | $34,858 |
| 75th Percentile | $42,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $49,200 |
Dental Assistant Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Arkansas
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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