Dental Assistants Salary in Detroit, MI

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI

Median annual salary $47,310 +0% vs national
Median hourly $22.75
10th percentile $35,070
90th percentile $55,470
Employed locally 6,270
National median $47,300

Compare Dental Assistants salary & buying power

Type a city below to see how Detroit, MI stacks up on salary and cost of living.

Full tool →
Dental Assistants
in
Detroit, MI
vs

    In Detroit, MI, dental assistants earn a median annual salary of $47,310, with an hourly wage averaging $22.75. This figure aligns closely with the national median for dental assistants, which stands at $47,300. When compared to the local household income in Detroit, where the area's median is $75,123, it becomes evident that a typical dental assistant's earnings constitute approximately 63% of the average household income. The salary range within this occupation indicates some variability; dental assistants earning below the 10th percentile make around $35,070 annually, while those at the 90th percentile earn up to $55,470. This distribution reflects both the diverse responsibilities and experience levels within the field.

    Entry-level dental assistants in Detroit generally start with salaries closer to the lower end of the spectrum, often near or below the 25th percentile mark at approximately $38,790 per year. As these professionals gain experience and potentially additional qualifications such as certifications or specialized training, their earnings tend to increase significantly, approaching or exceeding the 75th percentile range of about $48,710 annually. Experienced dental assistants may earn up to the 90th percentile with salaries reaching $55,470, driven by factors such as tenure, skill enhancement, and a higher level of responsibility within their roles. This progression underscores the impact that experience and professional development have on earnings potential in this field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $35,070
    25th
    $38,790
    50th (median)
    $47,310
    75th
    $48,710
    90th
    $55,470

    Detroit economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.50% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $75,123 2023 • Census ACS
    Dental Assistants salary vs area income 63% Median Dental Assistants salary is 37% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Dental Assistants make per hour in Detroit?

    The median hourly wage for Dental Assistants in Detroit, MI is $22.75, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $28.20 or more per hour.

    Is Detroit above or below average for Dental Assistants salaries?

    The median Dental Assistants salary in Detroit, MI is 0% above 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 Detroit?

    Entry-level Dental Assistants (10th percentile) earn around $35,070 per year in Detroit, MI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $38,790.