Dental Assistant Salary in Cambridge, Massachusetts
The median dental assistant salary in Cambridge, MA is $71,417 per year, which is 68.0% above the national median and 17.5% above the Massachusetts state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Cambridge: What to Expect (2026)
Cambridge offers a median dental assistant salary of $71,417, which is $10,628 above the Massachusetts state average of $60,789. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Cambridge pays above average for this role.
However, Cambridge's cost of living index is 160%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $71,417 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $44,636. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Cambridge should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for dental assistants in Cambridge spans from $50,400 at the 10th percentile to $100,800 at the 90th percentile — a $50,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $52,080, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $97,440. With a population of 118,403, Cambridge is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Cambridge by Experience
In Cambridge, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $52,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $97,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 160% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Cambridge, MA
| Percentile | Cambridge |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,800 |
| Median (50th) | $71,417 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $100,800 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Cambridge
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Cambridge 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 Cambridge may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Cambridge
Browse open dental assistant positions in Cambridge, MA: