Healthcare Oregon (OR) Rank #10 of 50

Dentist Salary in Oregon

The median dentist salary in Oregon is $179,614 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $160,370.

Median Salary
$179,614
vs National
+$19,244
State Rank
#10 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Dentist Salary Overview in Oregon (2026)

Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for dentist compensation. This places Oregon in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for dentists seeking high pay. At $179,614 per year, dentists in Oregon earn $19,244 more than the national median of $160,370.

It's worth noting that Oregon's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $179,614 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $163,285.

The salary spread in Oregon is significant: dentists at the 10th percentile earn $89,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $282,240 — a $192,640 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Oregon for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $192,444.

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 Oregon by Experience

In Oregon, an entry-level dentist earns around $95,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $263,200 per year. The cost of living index in Oregon is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$95,200
+$10,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$181,440
+$19,440 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$263,200
+$28,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Oregon

Percentile OR Salary
10th Percentile $89,600
25th Percentile $128,800
Median (50th) $179,614
75th Percentile $232,960
90th Percentile $282,240

Dentist Salary by City in Oregon

The largest employment areas for dentists in Oregon include Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Gresham. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dentist in Oregon

Education

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

Key Skills

Dental ProceduresRadiographyPatient ManagementOral SurgeryProsthodonticsAnesthesia

Job Outlook in Oregon

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dentist Salary in Oregon

How much does a Dentist make in Oregon? ▼
The median dentist salary in Oregon is $179,614 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $160,370. Salaries range from $89,600 (10th percentile) to $282,240 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dentist make per hour in Oregon? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $179,614, a dentist in Oregon earns approximately $86 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Oregon a good state for dentists? ▼
Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for dentist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level dentists earn $95,200, while senior professionals earn $263,200.
How does Oregon compare to other states for dentist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dentists is Hawaii at $285,459. Oregon's median of $179,614 ranks #10 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Connecticut ($186,029) and Maryland ($182,822).
What is the entry-level dentist salary in Oregon? ▼
An entry-level dentist in Oregon earns approximately $95,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $181,440. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $263,200.
What city in Oregon pays dentists the most? ▼
Portland is the highest paying city in Oregon for dentists, with a median salary of $192,444. Other cities include Salem and Eugene.