Dental Assistant Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median dental assistant salary in Tacoma, WA is $48,461 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median and 4.2% below the Washington state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median dental assistant salary of $48,461, which is $2,126 below the Washington state average of $50,587. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% 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 Tacoma spans from $34,200 at the 10th percentile to $68,400 at the 90th percentile — a $34,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,340, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $66,120. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $35,340, while experienced professionals earn up to $66,120 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,900 |
| Median (50th) | $48,461 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $68,400 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Tacoma
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open dental assistant positions in Tacoma, WA: