Dentist Salary in Pennsylvania
The median dentist salary in Pennsylvania is $158,766 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $160,370.
Dentist Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #21 out of 50 states for dentist compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for dentist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $158,766 per year, dentists in Pennsylvania earn $1,604 less than the national median of $160,370.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning dentist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: dentists at the 10th percentile earn $79,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $249,480 — a $170,280 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $168,389.
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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level dentist earns around $84,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $232,650 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $158,766+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,850 |
| Median (50th) | $158,766 |
| 75th Percentile | $205,920 |
| 90th Percentile | $249,480 |
Dentist Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for dentists in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Dentist in Pennsylvania
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, dentist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Dentists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $73,884 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Dentist Roles in Pennsylvania?
Get matched with recruiters hiring dentists in Pennsylvania at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: