Average Dental Assistants Salary in Chico, CA
Dental Assistants in Chico, CA, earn an average annual salary of $50,890, which is notably higher than the national average of $48,760. This localized pay differential is often influenced by a combination of regional demand, the cost of living, and the specific economic landscape of the Chico area. Factors such as the concentration of dental practices and the overall healthcare infrastructure contribute to this elevated compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $50,890 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $62,090.
- Outlook: Chico, CA, presents a robust job market for Dental Assistants, evidenced by a total local workforce of 250 professionals. The Location Quotient of 1.32 indicates a higher concentration of these roles in Chico compared to the national average, suggesting a steady demand and a potentially stable job outlook for skilled Dental Assistants in the region.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Chico, CA earns+4.4%above the national average.
$24.5
$979
$4,241
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that Dental Assistant salaries in Chico, CA, have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic factors, inflation, and increasing demand for dental services typically drive upward salary adjustments for healthcare professionals in most established markets.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Chico, CA
The salary progression for Dental Assistants in Chico, CA, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and years of practice can command salaries in the higher percentiles. These percentile gaps are a clear indicator of career advancement opportunities and the value placed on experience within the local dental industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $36,440 | $17.5 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $38,168 | $18.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $48,090 | $23.1 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $63,613 | $30.6 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $62,090 | $29.9 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$50,890
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$50,890
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $50,890 and a Cost of Living Index at the national average of 100, Dental Assistants in Chico, CA, can expect their nominal earnings to translate directly to purchasing power. This means that the $50,890 salary offers a standard of living comparable to the national average, making it a financially stable location for the profession.
Job Market Context
250
Total Jobs
3.202
Per 1K Jobs
1.32
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.32, Chico, CA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Dental Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.32 for Dental Assistants in Chico, CA, signifies a job market where these professionals are more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand for their services and potentially a more competitive environment for new entrants, but also indicates a strong presence and established need within the local community.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Yuba City, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $50,360↓ 1% | 44 mi |
| Redding, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $49,920↓ 2% | 63 mi |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $58,200↑ 14% | 84 mi |
Comparing salaries near Chico, CA
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Chico, CA?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Chico, CA is $50,890. This typically ranges from $36,440 for entry-level positions to $62,090 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Chico, CA is 4.4% higher than the national median of $48,760.
Is Chico, CA a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
Yes, Chico, CA offers a slightly more lucrative environment for Dental Assistants compared to the national average.The average salary of $50,890 in Chico exceeds the national average, and with a Cost of Living Index at 100, the purchasing power of this salary is favorable.
Is Chico, CA a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Chico, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Chico, CA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Yuba City, CA ($50,360) and Redding, CA.
How does Chico's cost of living compare to the national average for Dental Assistants?
Chico, CA, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that the average salary of $50,890 for Dental Assistants in Chico provides a purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
What is the concentration of Dental Assistants in Chico, CA?
The concentration of Dental Assistants in Chico, CA, is higher than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.32. This suggests a greater prevalence of these jobs within the local workforce.
How many Dental Assistants are there in Chico, CA?
There are approximately 250 Dental Assistants working in Chico, CA, contributing to the local healthcare sector.
Are there more Dental Assistant jobs in Chico compared to other areas?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.32 indicates that Dental Assistants are more concentrated in Chico, CA, than in the average U.S. location, suggesting a potentially stronger local job market for this profession.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 250 employees in the Chico, CA area with a job density of 3.202 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Dental Assistants Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Chico, CA
- All Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Healthcare Support Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Home Health and Personal Care Aides Salary in Chico, CA
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Management Occupations Salary in Chico, CA
- Browse All Jobs in Chico, CA →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Dental Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Chico, CA