Dentists, General Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Median annual salary $175,140 +1.4% vs national
Median hourly $84.20
10th percentile $82,960
90th percentile
Employed locally 3,980
National median $172,790

Compare Dentists, General salary & buying power

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Dentists, General
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, dentists, general, have a median annual salary of $175,140, which is slightly higher than the national median of $172,790. This equates to a median hourly rate of $84.20. When compared to the local area's median household income of $88,850, it is evident that a typical dentist earns substantially more, approximately 197% of the area's median household income. This significant difference underscores the high earning potential within the dental profession in this region and highlights how much dental professionals contribute economically compared to the average household.

    Entry-level dentists in Chicago, IL-IN earn around $82,960 annually, which is at the 10th percentile, while more experienced practitioners can earn up to $229,620 annually, marking the 75th percentile. The disparity between these earnings levels is primarily driven by factors such as years of experience, specialty certifications, and practice ownership. As dentists advance in their careers and potentially open or take on leadership roles within practices, they tend to see substantial increases in income compared to those just starting out. This progression reflects the value placed on expertise and leadership within the field over time.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $82,960
    25th
    $130,840
    50th (median)
    $175,140
    75th
    $229,620

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Dentists, General salary vs area income 197% Median Dentists, General salary is 97% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Dentists, General make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Dentists, General in Chicago, IL-IN is $84.20, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $139.83 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Dentists, General salaries?

    The median Dentists, General salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 1.4% above the national median of $172,790. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Dentists, General in Chicago?

    Entry-level Dentists, General (10th percentile) earn around $82,960 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $130,840.