Dentist Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median dentist salary in Columbia, MO is $141,126 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Dentist Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median dentist salary of $141,126, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $141,126. Compared to the national median of $160,370, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $141,126 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $160,370 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for dentists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for dentists in Columbia spans from $70,400 at the 10th percentile to $221,760 at the 90th percentile — a $151,360 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $74,800, while senior dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $206,800. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dentist Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level dentist earns around $74,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $206,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,200 |
| Median (50th) | $141,126 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $221,760 |
Dentist Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Dentist in Columbia
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dentist Jobs in Columbia
Browse open dentist positions in Columbia, MO: