Healthcare Washington (WA) Rank #7 of 50

Dental Assistant Salary in Washington

The median dental assistant salary in Washington is $50,587 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $42,510.

Median Salary
$50,587
vs National
+$8,077
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Dental Assistant Salary in Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $36,890, while experienced professionals earn up to $69,020 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,890
+$5,890 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$51,170
+$8,170 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$69,020
+$11,020 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $35,700
25th Percentile $41,650
Median (50th) $50,587
75th Percentile $61,880
90th Percentile $71,400

Dental Assistant Salary by City in Washington

The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Washington

Education

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

Key Skills

Chairside AssistingDental X-raysSterilizationPatient CareDental SoftwareCommunication

Job Outlook in Washington

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

Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Washington

Browse open dental assistant positions in Washington:

Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Assistant Salary in Washington

How much does a Dental Assistant make in Washington?
The median dental assistant salary in Washington is $50,587 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $42,510. Salaries range from $35,700 (10th percentile) to $71,400 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dental Assistant make per hour in Washington?
Based on the median annual salary of $50,587, a dental assistant in Washington earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for dental assistants?
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for dental assistant pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level dental assistants earn $36,890, while senior professionals earn $69,020.
How does Washington compare to other states for dental assistant salary?
The highest paying state for dental assistants is Hawaii at $75,668. Washington's median of $50,587 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New York ($53,988) and New Jersey ($51,012).
What is the entry-level dental assistant salary in Washington?
An entry-level dental assistant in Washington earns approximately $36,890 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $51,170. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $69,020.
What city in Washington pays dental assistants the most?
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for dental assistants, with a median salary of $66,316. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.