Dental Assistant Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median dental assistant salary in Salem, OR is $44,210 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 7.1% below the Oregon state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median dental assistant salary of $44,210, which is $3,401 below the Oregon state average of $47,611. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Salem pays above average for this role.
Salem's cost of living is 102% 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 Salem spans from $31,200 at the 10th percentile to $62,400 at the 90th percentile — a $31,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,240, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $60,320. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $32,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,320 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,400 |
| Median (50th) | $44,210 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $62,400 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Salem
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Salem and the surrounding Oregon 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 Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Salem
Browse open dental assistant positions in Salem, OR: