Healthcare Columbia, MD Pop. 104,681

Dental Assistant Salary in Columbia, Maryland

The median dental assistant salary in Columbia, MD is $51,862 per year, which is 22.0% above the national median and 7.0% above the Maryland state average.

City Median
$51,862
vs State Avg
+$3,401
vs National
+$9,352
Cost of Living
118%

Dental Assistant Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $37,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $70,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,820
+$6,820 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$52,460
+$9,460 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$70,760
+$12,760 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MD

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $36,600
25th Percentile $42,700
Median (50th) $51,862
75th Percentile $63,440
90th Percentile $73,200

Dental Assistant Salary in Other Maryland Cities

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Columbia

Education

Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Columbia and the surrounding Maryland 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.