Healthcare Minnesota (MN) Rank #17 of 50

Dental Assistant Salary in Minnesota

The median dental assistant salary in Minnesota is $42,935 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $42,510.

Median Salary
$42,935
vs National
+$425
State Rank
#17 of 50
Cost of Living
97%

Dental Assistant Salary Overview in Minnesota (2026)

Minnesota ranks #17 out of 50 states for dental assistant compensation. Minnesota falls in the middle of the pack for dental assistant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $42,935 per year, dental assistants in Minnesota earn $425 more than the national median of $42,510.

Minnesota's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning dental assistant salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Minnesota is significant: dental assistants at the 10th percentile earn $30,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $60,600 — a $30,300 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Minnesota for this role is Minneapolis, where the median reaches $46,336.

Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dental assistants across the country.

Dental Assistant Salary in Minnesota by Experience

In Minnesota, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $31,310, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,580 per year. The cost of living index in Minnesota is 97% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$31,310
+$310 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$43,430
+$430 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$58,580
+$580 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Minnesota

Percentile MN Salary
10th Percentile $30,300
25th Percentile $35,350
Median (50th) $42,935
75th Percentile $52,520
90th Percentile $60,600

Dental Assistant Salary by City in Minnesota

The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Minnesota include Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, and Duluth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Minnesota

Education

Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Minnesota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

Job Outlook in Minnesota

Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Minnesota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Assistant Salary in Minnesota

How much does a Dental Assistant make in Minnesota? ▼
The median dental assistant salary in Minnesota is $42,935 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $42,510. Salaries range from $30,300 (10th percentile) to $60,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dental Assistant make per hour in Minnesota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $42,935, a dental assistant in Minnesota earns approximately $21 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Minnesota a good state for dental assistants? ▼
Minnesota ranks #17 out of 50 states for dental assistant pay. The cost of living index is 97% of the national average. Entry-level dental assistants earn $31,310, while senior professionals earn $58,580.
How does Minnesota compare to other states for dental assistant salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dental assistants is Hawaii at $75,668. Minnesota's median of $42,935 ranks #17 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Delaware ($43,785) and Vermont ($43,785).
What is the entry-level dental assistant salary in Minnesota? ▼
An entry-level dental assistant in Minnesota earns approximately $31,310 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $43,430. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $58,580.
What city in Minnesota pays dental assistants the most? ▼
Minneapolis is the highest paying city in Minnesota for dental assistants, with a median salary of $46,336. Other cities include Saint Paul and Rochester.