Dental Assistant Salary in Hilo, Hawaii
The median dental assistant salary in Hilo, HI is $68,016 per year, which is 60.0% above the national median and 10.1% below the Hawaii state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Hilo: What to Expect (2026)
Hilo offers a median dental assistant salary of $68,016, which is $7,652 below the Hawaii state average of $75,668. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Hilo pays above average for this role.
However, Hilo's cost of living index is 152%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $68,016 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $44,747. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Hilo should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for dental assistants in Hilo spans from $48,000 at the 10th percentile to $96,000 at the 90th percentile — a $48,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,600, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $92,800. Hilo is a smaller market (pop. 45,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Dental Assistant Salary in Hilo by Experience
In Hilo, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $49,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Hilo, HI
| Percentile | Hilo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $48,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,000 |
| Median (50th) | $68,016 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $96,000 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Hawaii Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Hilo
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Hilo and the surrounding Hawaii 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 Hilo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Hilo
Browse open dental assistant positions in Hilo, HI: