Dentist Salary in Tucson, Arizona
The median dentist salary in Tucson, AZ is $149,144 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 4.1% below the Arizona state average.
Dentist Pay in Tucson: What to Expect (2026)
Tucson offers a median dentist salary of $149,144, which is $6,415 below the Arizona state average of $155,559. Compared to the national median of $160,370, Tucson pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Tucson's cost of living is 93% 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 dentists in Tucson spans from $74,400 at the 10th percentile to $234,360 at the 90th percentile — a $159,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $79,050, while senior dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $218,550. As a major metro area with a population of 542,629, Tucson typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Dentist Salary in Tucson by Experience
In Tucson, an entry-level dentist earns around $79,050, while experienced professionals earn up to $218,550 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tucson, AZ
| Percentile | Tucson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,950 |
| Median (50th) | $149,144 |
| 75th Percentile | $193,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $234,360 |
Dentist Salary in Other Arizona Cities
How to Become a Dentist in Tucson
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Tucson and the surrounding Arizona area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dentist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Tucson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dentist Jobs in Tucson
Browse open dentist positions in Tucson, AZ: