Dental Assistant Salary in Madison, Wisconsin
The median dental assistant salary in Madison, WI is $43,360 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 8.5% above the Wisconsin state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Madison: What to Expect (2026)
Madison offers a median dental assistant salary of $43,360, which is $3,401 above the Wisconsin state average of $39,959. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Madison pays above average for this role.
Madison's cost of living is 100% 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 Madison spans from $30,600 at the 10th percentile to $61,200 at the 90th percentile — a $30,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,620, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $59,160. With a population of 269,840, Madison is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Madison by Experience
In Madison, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $31,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $59,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Madison, WI
| Percentile | Madison |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,700 |
| Median (50th) | $43,360 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $61,200 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Madison
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin 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 Madison may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Madison
Browse open dental assistant positions in Madison, WI: