Dentist Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median dentist salary in Raleigh, NC is $157,163 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Dentist Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median dentist salary of $157,163, which is $9,623 above the North Carolina state average of $147,540. Compared to the national median of $160,370, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 Raleigh spans from $78,400 at the 10th percentile to $246,960 at the 90th percentile — a $168,560 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,300, while senior dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $230,300. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dentist Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level dentist earns around $83,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $230,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $112,700 |
| Median (50th) | $157,163 |
| 75th Percentile | $203,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $246,960 |
Dentist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Dentist in Raleigh
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Raleigh 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dentist Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open dentist positions in Raleigh, NC: