How much does a Dental Assistant make in California?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist. Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures. May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Dental Assistant in California range from $38,770 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $72,060 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $45,630 and $59,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $38,770 | $18.64 | $3,230 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,630 | $21.94 | $3,802 |
| Median (50th) | $48,910 | $23.51 | $4,075 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,960 | $28.83 | $4,996 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $72,060 | $34.64 | $6,005 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $53,570 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
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Compare Dental Assistant pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS