Dental Assistants Salary in Atlanta, GA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA

Median annual salary $46,060 -2.6% vs national
Median hourly $22.15
10th percentile $37,300
90th percentile $59,150
Employed locally 5,980
National median $47,300

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Dental Assistants
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    In Atlanta, GA, dental assistants earn a median annual salary of $46,060, which is slightly below the national median of $47,300 for this occupation. Comparatively, this salary represents approximately 53% of the area's median household income of $86,338, indicating that while dental assistants contribute significantly to local households, they typically earn less than half of the median household income in Atlanta. The disparity between individual earnings and household incomes highlights a reliance on multiple income earners within families or supplementary income sources to match or exceed the median household standard.

    Entry-level dental assistants in Atlanta are positioned at the lower end of the salary spectrum, earning around $37,300 annually, which corresponds with the 10th percentile mark. Conversely, experienced workers can expect significantly higher earnings, especially those reaching the 75th percentile at approximately $52,830 per year and up to $59,150 for top earners in the 90th percentile. The salary variations between entry-level and seasoned professionals are primarily driven by factors such as accumulated experience, additional certifications or specializations, geographic demand, and individual performance within the role. Such experience-driven compensation reflects a broader trend across skilled professions where expertise and proven competence command higher remuneration.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $37,300
    25th
    $42,540
    50th (median)
    $46,060
    75th
    $52,830
    90th
    $59,150

    Atlanta economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,338 2023 • Census ACS
    Dental Assistants salary vs area income 53% Median Dental Assistants salary is 47% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Dental Assistants make per hour in Atlanta?

    The median hourly wage for Dental Assistants in Atlanta, GA is $22.15, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $27.78 or more per hour.

    Is Atlanta above or below average for Dental Assistants salaries?

    The median Dental Assistants salary in Atlanta, GA is 2.6% below the national median of $47,300. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Dental Assistants in Atlanta?

    Entry-level Dental Assistants (10th percentile) earn around $37,300 per year in Atlanta, GA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $42,540.