Dentist Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median dentist salary in Durham, NC is $152,352 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Dentist Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median dentist salary of $152,352, which is $4,812 above the North Carolina state average of $147,540. Compared to the national median of $160,370, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% 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 Durham spans from $76,000 at the 10th percentile to $239,400 at the 90th percentile — a $163,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $80,750, while senior dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $223,250. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dentist Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level dentist earns around $80,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $223,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $109,250 |
| Median (50th) | $152,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $197,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $239,400 |
Dentist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Dentist in Durham
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dentist Jobs in Durham
Browse open dentist positions in Durham, NC: