Healthcare Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Dentist Salary in Massachusetts

The median dentist salary in Massachusetts is $229,329 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $160,370.

Median Salary
$229,329
vs National
+$68,959
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Dentist Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for dentist compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for dentists seeking high pay. At $229,329 per year, dentists in Massachusetts earn $68,959 more than the national median of $160,370.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $229,329 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $169,873.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: dentists at the 10th percentile earn $114,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $360,360 — a $245,960 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $269,422.

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 Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level dentist earns around $121,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $336,050 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$121,550
+$36,550 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$231,660
+$69,660 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$336,050
+$101,050 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $114,400
25th Percentile $164,450
Median (50th) $229,329
75th Percentile $297,440
90th Percentile $360,360

Dentist Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for dentists in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dentist in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

Dental ProceduresRadiographyPatient ManagementOral SurgeryProsthodonticsAnesthesia

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dentist Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Dentist make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median dentist salary in Massachusetts is $229,329 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $160,370. Salaries range from $114,400 (10th percentile) to $360,360 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dentist make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $229,329, a dentist in Massachusetts earns approximately $110 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for dentists? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for dentist pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level dentists earn $121,550, while senior professionals earn $336,050.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for dentist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dentists is Hawaii at $285,459. Massachusetts's median of $229,329 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($285,459) and California ($234,140).
What is the entry-level dentist salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level dentist in Massachusetts earns approximately $121,550 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $231,660. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $336,050.
What city in Massachusetts pays dentists the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for dentists, with a median salary of $269,422. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.