Dental Assistant Salary in Lincoln, Nebraska
The median dental assistant salary in Lincoln, NE is $38,259 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 0.0% above the Nebraska state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Lincoln: What to Expect (2026)
Lincoln offers a median dental assistant salary of $38,259, which is $0 above the Nebraska state average of $38,259. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Lincoln pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lincoln'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 Lincoln 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 291,082, Lincoln is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Lincoln by Experience
In Lincoln, 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 Lincoln, NE
| Percentile | Lincoln |
|---|---|
| 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 Nebraska Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Lincoln
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Lincoln 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 Lincoln may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Lincoln
Browse open dental assistant positions in Lincoln, NE: