Dentist Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota
The median dentist salary in Rapid City, SD is $144,333 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 2.3% above the South Dakota state average.
Dentist Pay in Rapid City: What to Expect (2026)
Rapid City offers a median dentist salary of $144,333, which is $3,207 above the South Dakota state average of $141,126. Compared to the national median of $160,370, Rapid City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rapid City's cost of living is 90% 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 Rapid City spans from $72,000 at the 10th percentile to $226,800 at the 90th percentile — a $154,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,500, while senior dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $211,500. Rapid City is a smaller market (pop. 74,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Dentist Salary in Rapid City by Experience
In Rapid City, an entry-level dentist earns around $76,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $211,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rapid City, SD
| Percentile | Rapid City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,500 |
| Median (50th) | $144,333 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $226,800 |
Dentist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Dentist in Rapid City
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Rapid City and the surrounding South Dakota 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 Rapid City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dentist Jobs in Rapid City
Browse open dentist positions in Rapid City, SD: