Dental Assistants Salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD

Median annual salary $50,200 +6.1% vs national
Median hourly $24.13
10th percentile $38,650
90th percentile $63,510
Employed locally 6,790
National median $47,300

Compare Dental Assistants salary & buying power

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    In Philadelphia and its surrounding areas of New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, dental assistants earn a median annual salary of $50,200, which is slightly higher than the national median of $47,300. This income places them above the local unemployment rate of 3.80%, indicating relative stability in this field. When compared to the area's median household income of $89,273, the earnings for dental assistants represent about 56% of a typical household’s income. While they do not surpass household incomes, their compensation reflects essential contributions within the healthcare sector, emphasizing their role in supporting dentists and ensuring efficient patient care.

    For entry-level dental assistants, salaries typically start around the 10th percentile mark at $38,650 annually, while those further along in their careers or with specialized skills may earn closer to the 75th percentile of $57,920. The progression from an entry-level position to a more experienced role can be influenced by factors such as increased responsibility, enhanced skill sets, and additional certifications, which often lead to higher pay rates. This salary range highlights the potential for growth in earnings within this occupation, driven by experience, demand for specialized skills, and ongoing professional development.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $38,650
    25th
    $45,880
    50th (median)
    $50,200
    75th
    $57,920
    90th
    $63,510

    Philadelphia economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $89,273 2023 • Census ACS
    Dental Assistants salary vs area income 56% Median Dental Assistants salary is 44% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Dental Assistants make per hour in Philadelphia?

    The median hourly wage for Dental Assistants in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is $24.13, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $33.29 or more per hour.

    Is Philadelphia above or below average for Dental Assistants salaries?

    The median Dental Assistants salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is 6.1% 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 Philadelphia?

    Entry-level Dental Assistants (10th percentile) earn around $38,650 per year in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $45,880.