Healthcare Des Moines, IA Pop. 214,133

Dental Assistant Salary in Des Moines, Iowa

The median dental assistant salary in Des Moines, IA is $39,109 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.

City Median
$39,109
vs State Avg
+$1,275
vs National
$-3,401
Cost of Living
92%

Dental Assistant Salary in Des Moines by Experience

In Des Moines, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $28,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $53,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$28,520
$-2,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$39,560
$-3,440 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$53,360
$-4,640 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA

Percentile Des Moines
10th Percentile $27,600
25th Percentile $32,200
Median (50th) $39,109
75th Percentile $47,840
90th Percentile $55,200

Dental Assistant Salary in Other Iowa Cities

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Des Moines

Education

Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

Job Outlook

Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.