Average Dental Assistants Salary in Altoona, PA
The average salary for Dental Assistantss in Altoona, PA is $43,700. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Altoona, PA may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $43,700 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $56,650.
- Outlook: The current demand for Dental Assistantss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 100 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Altoona, PA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Altoona, PA earns-10.4%below the national average.
$21
$840
$3,642
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Dental Assistants salaries in Altoona, PA have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 25.5%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA
The earning potential for Dental Assistantss in Altoona, PA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $34,370, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $56,650.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $34,370 | $16.5 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $32,775 | $15.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $44,670 | $21.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $54,625 | $26.3 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $56,650 | $27.2 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$43,700
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$43,700
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Altoona, PA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $43,700 to $43,700.
Job Market Context
100
Total Jobs
1.652
Per 1K Jobs
0.68
Location Quotient
Altoona, PA has 0.68x the national average concentration of Dental Assistants jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
100 people work as Dental Assistants in Altoona, PA.
1.652 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Dental Assistants positions — a typical concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Johnstown, PA Dental Assistants Salary | $42,990↓ 2% | 30 mi |
| State College, PA Dental Assistants Salary | $46,620↑ 7% | 35 mi |
| Chambersburg, PA Dental Assistants Salary | $47,700↑ 9% | 56 mi |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV Dental Assistants Salary | $45,400↑ 4% | 70 mi |
| Gettysburg, PA Dental Assistants Salary | $46,560↑ 7% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Altoona, PA
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Altoona, PA?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Altoona, PA is $43,700. This typically ranges from $34,370 for entry-level positions to $56,650 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 10.4% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Altoona, PA a good place for Dental Assistantss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Dental Assistants salary in Altoona, PA is $43,700 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Altoona, PA. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Altoona, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Altoona, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Johnstown, PA ($42,990) and State College, PA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 100 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 1.652 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Dental Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Altoona, PA