Dental Assistant Salary in Grand Island, Nebraska
The median dental assistant salary in Grand Island, NE is $35,708 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 6.7% below the Nebraska state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Grand Island: What to Expect (2026)
Grand Island offers a median dental assistant salary of $35,708, which is $2,551 below the Nebraska state average of $38,259. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Grand Island pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Grand Island's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $35,708 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $42,510 in an average-cost city. This makes Grand Island an attractive option for dental assistants seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for dental assistants in Grand Island spans from $25,200 at the 10th percentile to $50,400 at the 90th percentile — a $25,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,040, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $48,720. Grand Island is a smaller market (pop. 53,131), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Dental Assistant Salary in Grand Island by Experience
In Grand Island, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $26,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $48,720 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Grand Island, NE
| Percentile | Grand Island |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,400 |
| Median (50th) | $35,708 |
| 75th Percentile | $43,680 |
| 90th Percentile | $50,400 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Nebraska Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Grand Island
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Grand Island and the surrounding Nebraska 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 Island may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Grand Island
Browse open dental assistant positions in Grand Island, NE: