Dental Assistant Salary in Grand Rapids, Michigan
The median dental assistant salary in Grand Rapids, MI is $38,259 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 0.0% above the Michigan state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Grand Rapids: What to Expect (2026)
Grand Rapids offers a median dental assistant salary of $38,259, which is $0 above the Michigan state average of $38,259. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Grand Rapids pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Grand Rapids's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for dental assistants in Grand Rapids spans from $27,000 at the 10th percentile to $54,000 at the 90th percentile — a $27,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,900, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $52,200. With a population of 198,917, Grand Rapids is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Grand Rapids by Experience
In Grand Rapids, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $27,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Grand Rapids, MI
| Percentile | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,500 |
| Median (50th) | $38,259 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $54,000 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Michigan Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Grand Rapids
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Grand Rapids and the surrounding Michigan 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 Grand Rapids may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Grand Rapids
Browse open dental assistant positions in Grand Rapids, MI: