What states pay dental assistants the most?
Thinking about becoming a dental assistant or taking the next step in your career? Maybe you’re considering moving to another state or switching practices. No matter your circumstances, there’s likely one question at the top of your mind: “How much can dental assistants earn?”
The truth is there’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. A dental assistant’s salary can vary depending on factors such as education and practice setting, among others. No matter where you’re located, certification, confidence, and experience can help you achieve your salary goals.
Location, location, location
One factor that can have a significant impact on dental assistants’ pay is geographic location. DANB’s 2026 Dental Assistants Salary and Satisfaction Survey shows that California tops the list for Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) pay at $33-35 per hour (median hourly wage). Generally, dental assistants in major metropolitan areas earn more than dental assistants who live in smaller towns due to a higher cost of living and an increased demand for services.
However, some states with lower population density boast high wages due to strong career ladders or dental assistants being particularly in demand. For instance, dental assistants in Alaska typically earn more than in other states because of geographic isolation and overall higher cost of living.
Where pay goes the furthest
It’s important to remember that just because a state has high pay, the higher cost of living in states such as California or Massachusetts can impact dental assistants’ bottom line. In states with a lower cost of living, dental assistants are able to stretch their dollar further. For instance, Kentucky, Maine, and North Dakota are among a group of states where the median dental assistant pay is at least 10% higher than the minimum living wage.
The benefit of career ladders
Areas that offer defined career advancement for dental assistants are also on the list of top-paying states. For example, in Minnesota — the state with the highest median hourly wage in the country ($31.38) — dental assistants can pursue a Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) credential. At this level, LDAs can perform a wider range of functions and earn certificates in restorative functions and administering nitrous oxide. States with well-defined careers ladders, including New Jersey and Oregon, create more advancement opportunities for dental assistants and set them up for a career where they can grow.
Leverage your experience
While it’s important to know which states pay the highest wages, there are many other ways dental assistants can set themselves up for greater income. Earning certification, taking continuing education courses, and having an extensive skillset can all contribute to better pay. Confidence can also help you achieve your desired pay by helping you explore more advanced roles and responsibilities within your practice. DANB’s salary survey shows that dental assistants who have more confidence can earn higher wages as they gain more experience.
Top paying states for DANB CDA certificants:
$33-$35:
California
$30-$32:
Alaska
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Maine
Massachusetts
Minnesota
New Hampshire
New Jersey
Oregon
Washington
Top paying states for dental assistants who are not certified:
$30-$32:
Minnesota
$27-$29:
Alaska
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Maine
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
North Dakota