Dental Assistant Salary in Houston, Texas
The median dental assistant salary in Houston, TX is $41,660 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median dental assistant salary of $41,660, which is $1,701 above the Texas state average of $39,959. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Houston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Houston's cost of living is 96% 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 Houston spans from $29,400 at the 10th percentile to $58,800 at the 90th percentile — a $29,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,380, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $56,840. As a major metro area with a population of 2,304,580, Houston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Dental Assistant Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $30,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $56,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,300 |
| Median (50th) | $41,660 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,960 |
| 90th Percentile | $58,800 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Houston
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Houston and the surrounding Texas 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 Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Houston
Browse open dental assistant positions in Houston, TX: