Healthcare Connecticut (CT) Rank #8 of 50

Dentist Salary in Connecticut

The median dentist salary in Connecticut is $186,029 per year, which is 16.0% above the national median of $160,370.

Median Salary
$186,029
vs National
+$25,659
State Rank
#8 of 50
Cost of Living
112%

Dentist Salary Overview in Connecticut (2026)

Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for dentist compensation. This places Connecticut in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for dentists seeking high pay. At $186,029 per year, dentists in Connecticut earn $25,659 more than the national median of $160,370.

It's worth noting that Connecticut's cost of living is 112% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $186,029 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $166,097.

The salary spread in Connecticut is significant: dentists at the 10th percentile earn $92,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $292,320 — a $199,520 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Connecticut for this role is Stamford, where the median reaches $227,725.

Nationally, dentist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dentists across the country.

Dentist Salary in Connecticut by Experience

In Connecticut, an entry-level dentist earns around $98,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $272,600 per year. The cost of living index in Connecticut is 112% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$98,600
+$13,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$187,920
+$25,920 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$272,600
+$37,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Connecticut

Percentile CT Salary
10th Percentile $92,800
25th Percentile $133,400
Median (50th) $186,029
75th Percentile $241,280
90th Percentile $292,320

Dentist Salary by City in Connecticut

The largest employment areas for dentists in Connecticut include Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, and Stamford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dentist in Connecticut

Education

Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Connecticut has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Dental ProceduresRadiographyPatient ManagementOral SurgeryProsthodonticsAnesthesia

Job Outlook in Connecticut

Nationally, dentist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Connecticut's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dentist Salary in Connecticut

How much does a Dentist make in Connecticut? ▼
The median dentist salary in Connecticut is $186,029 per year, which is 16.0% above the national median of $160,370. Salaries range from $92,800 (10th percentile) to $292,320 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dentist make per hour in Connecticut? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $186,029, a dentist in Connecticut earns approximately $89 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Connecticut a good state for dentists? ▼
Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for dentist pay. The cost of living index is 112% of the national average. Entry-level dentists earn $98,600, while senior professionals earn $272,600.
How does Connecticut compare to other states for dentist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dentists is Hawaii at $285,459. Connecticut's median of $186,029 ranks #8 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Jersey ($192,444) and Washington ($190,840).
What is the entry-level dentist salary in Connecticut? ▼
An entry-level dentist in Connecticut earns approximately $98,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $187,920. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $272,600.
What city in Connecticut pays dentists the most? ▼
Stamford is the highest paying city in Connecticut for dentists, with a median salary of $227,725. Other cities include Bridgeport and New Haven.