Dental Hygienist Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median dental hygienist salary in Tacoma, WA is $92,796 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median and 4.2% below the Washington state average.
Dental Hygienist Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median dental hygienist salary of $92,796, which is $4,070 below the Washington state average of $96,866. Compared to the national median of $81,400, 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 hygienists in Tacoma spans from $66,348 at the 10th percentile to $123,348 at the 90th percentile — a $57,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $62,700, while senior dental hygienists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $119,700. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Hygienist Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level dental hygienist earns around $62,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $119,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $66,348 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,064 |
| Median (50th) | $92,796 |
| 75th Percentile | $111,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $123,348 |
Dental Hygienist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Tacoma
Education
Most dental hygienist positions require a associate's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Hygienist Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open dental hygienist positions in Tacoma, WA: