Healthcare Mississippi (MS) Rank #50 of 50

Dental Assistant Salary in Mississippi

The median dental assistant salary in Mississippi is $34,433 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $42,510.

Median Salary
$34,433
vs National
$-8,077
State Rank
#50 of 50
Cost of Living
83%

Dental Assistant Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)

Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for dental assistant compensation. Dental Assistant salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $34,433 per year, dental assistants in Mississippi earn $8,077 less than the national median of $42,510.

A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $34,433 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $41,486 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: dental assistants at the 10th percentile earn $24,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $48,600 — a $24,300 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Mississippi for this role is Jackson, where the median reaches $35,283.

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 Mississippi by Experience

In Mississippi, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $25,110, while experienced professionals earn up to $46,980 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$25,110
$-5,890 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$34,830
$-8,170 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$46,980
$-11,020 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Mississippi

Percentile MS Salary
10th Percentile $24,300
25th Percentile $28,350
Median (50th) $34,433
75th Percentile $42,120
90th Percentile $48,600

Dental Assistant Salary by City in Mississippi

The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Mississippi

Education

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

Key Skills

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

Job Outlook in Mississippi

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Assistant Salary in Mississippi

How much does a Dental Assistant make in Mississippi? ▼
The median dental assistant salary in Mississippi is $34,433 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $42,510. Salaries range from $24,300 (10th percentile) to $48,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dental Assistant make per hour in Mississippi? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $34,433, a dental assistant in Mississippi earns approximately $17 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Mississippi a good state for dental assistants? ▼
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for dental assistant pay. The cost of living index is 83% of the national average. Entry-level dental assistants earn $25,110, while senior professionals earn $46,980.
How does Mississippi compare to other states for dental assistant salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dental assistants is Hawaii at $75,668. Mississippi's median of $34,433 ranks #50 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Arkansas ($34,858) and West Virginia ($34,858).
What is the entry-level dental assistant salary in Mississippi? ▼
An entry-level dental assistant in Mississippi earns approximately $25,110 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $34,830. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $46,980.
What city in Mississippi pays dental assistants the most? ▼
Jackson is the highest paying city in Mississippi for dental assistants, with a median salary of $35,283. Other cities include Gulfport and Southaven.