Healthcare San Diego, CA Pop. 1,386,932

Dentist Salary in San Diego, California

The median dentist salary in San Diego, CA is $240,555 per year, which is 50.0% above the national median and 2.7% above the California state average.

City Median
$240,555
vs State Avg
+$6,415
vs National
+$80,185
Cost of Living
142%

Dentist Salary in San Diego by Experience

In San Diego, an entry-level dentist earns around $127,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $352,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 142% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$127,500
+$42,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$243,000
+$81,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$352,500
+$117,500 vs national

Salary Percentiles in San Diego, CA

Percentile San Diego
10th Percentile $120,000
25th Percentile $172,500
Median (50th) $240,555
75th Percentile $312,000
90th Percentile $378,000

Dentist Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Dentist in San Diego

Education

Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Dental ProceduresRadiographyPatient ManagementOral SurgeryProsthodonticsAnesthesia

Job Outlook

Nationally, dentist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.