Dental Assistant Salary in Boston, Massachusetts
The median dental assistant salary in Boston, MA is $68,016 per year, which is 60.0% above the national median and 11.9% above the Massachusetts state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Boston: What to Expect (2026)
Boston offers a median dental assistant salary of $68,016, which is $7,227 above the Massachusetts state average of $60,789. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Boston pays above average for this role.
However, Boston'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 Boston should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for dental assistants in Boston 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. As a major metro area with a population of 675,647, Boston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Dental Assistant Salary in Boston by Experience
In Boston, 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 Boston, MA
| Percentile | Boston |
|---|---|
| 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 Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Boston
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Boston and the surrounding Massachusetts 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 Boston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Boston
Browse open dental assistant positions in Boston, MA: