Dental Hygienist Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median dental hygienist salary in Athens, GA is $73,260 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Dental Hygienist Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median dental hygienist salary of $73,260, which is $2,442 below the Georgia state average of $75,702. Compared to the national median of $81,400, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% 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 hygienists in Athens spans from $52,380 at the 10th percentile to $97,380 at the 90th percentile — a $45,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,500, while senior dental hygienists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $94,500. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Hygienist Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level dental hygienist earns around $49,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,380 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,840 |
| Median (50th) | $73,260 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,380 |
Dental Hygienist Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Athens
Education
Most dental hygienist positions require a associate's degree. Athens and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Hygienist Jobs in Athens
Browse open dental hygienist positions in Athens, GA: