Dental Assistant Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median dental assistant salary in Boulder, CO is $55,263 per year, which is 30.0% above the national median and 21.5% above the Colorado state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median dental assistant salary of $55,263, which is $9,777 above the Colorado state average of $45,486. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Boulder pays above average for this role.
However, Boulder's cost of living index is 128%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $55,263 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $43,174. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for dental assistants in Boulder spans from $39,000 at the 10th percentile to $78,000 at the 90th percentile — a $39,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $40,300, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $75,400. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $40,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,500 |
| Median (50th) | $55,263 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $78,000 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Boulder
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Boulder
Browse open dental assistant positions in Boulder, CO: