Dental Assistant Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median dental assistant salary in Athens, GA is $38,259 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median dental assistant salary of $38,259, which is $1,275 below the Georgia state average of $39,534. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for dental assistants in Athens spans from $27,000 at the 10th percentile to $54,000 at the 90th percentile — a $27,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,900, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $52,200. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $27,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,500 |
| Median (50th) | $38,259 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $54,000 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Athens
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Athens and the surrounding Georgia 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 Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Athens
Browse open dental assistant positions in Athens, GA: