Dental Assistant Salary in Texas
The median dental assistant salary in Texas is $39,959 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $42,510.
Dental Assistant Salary Overview in Texas (2026)
Texas ranks #25 out of 50 states for dental assistant compensation. Texas falls in the middle of the pack for dental assistant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $39,959 per year, dental assistants in Texas earn $2,551 less than the national median of $42,510.
A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $39,959 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $43,434 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Texas is significant: dental assistants at the 10th percentile earn $28,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $56,400 — a $28,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, where the median reaches $45,486.
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 Texas by Experience
In Texas, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $29,140, while experienced professionals earn up to $54,520 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.
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Earning $39,959? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Texas
| Percentile | TX Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,900 |
| Median (50th) | $39,959 |
| 75th Percentile | $48,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $56,400 |
Dental Assistant Salary by City in Texas
The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Texas
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Texas
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Texas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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