Healthcare Arkansas (AR) Rank #48 of 50

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.

Median Salary

$34,858

vs National

$-7,652

State Rank

#48 of 50

Cost of Living

84%

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.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$25,420

$-5,580 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$35,260

$-7,740 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$47,560

$-10,440 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Arkansas

Percentile	AR Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$24,600	$30,000	$-5,400
25th Percentile	$28,700	$35,000	$-6,300
Median (50th)	$34,858	$42,510	$-7,652
75th Percentile	$42,640	$52,000	$-9,360
90th Percentile	$49,200	$60,000	$-10,800

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.

Little Rock, AR

$36,134

Pop. 202,591 · COL 87%

Fort Smith, AR

$33,158

Pop. 89,142 · COL 80%

Fayetteville, AR

$36,559

Pop. 93,949 · COL 88%

Springdale, AR

$34,858

Pop. 80,433 · COL 84%

Jonesboro, AR

$34,008

Pop. 78,576 · COL 82%

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

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

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.