Healthcare New Mexico (NM) Rank #33 of 50

Dental Assistant Salary in New Mexico

The median dental assistant salary in New Mexico is $38,684 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $42,510.

Median Salary

$38,684

vs National

$-3,826

State Rank

#33 of 50

Cost of Living

93%

Dental Assistant Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $28,210, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,780 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$28,210

$-2,790 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$39,130

$-3,870 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$52,780

$-5,220 vs national

Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile	NM Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$27,300	$30,000	$-2,700
25th Percentile	$31,850	$35,000	$-3,150
Median (50th)	$38,684	$42,510	$-3,826
75th Percentile	$47,320	$52,000	$-4,680
90th Percentile	$54,600	$60,000	$-5,400

Dental Assistant Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for dental assistants in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Albuquerque, NM

$39,534

Pop. 564,559 · COL 95%

Las Cruces, NM

$36,559

Pop. 111,385 · COL 88%

Rio Rancho, NM

$38,259

Pop. 104,046 · COL 92%

Santa Fe, NM

$45,911

Pop. 87,505 · COL 110%

Roswell, NM

$34,008

Pop. 48,422 · COL 82%

How to Become a Dental Assistant in New Mexico

Education

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

Key Skills

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

Job Outlook in New Mexico

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