Average Dental Assistants Salary in Fort Smith, AR-OK
The average annual salary for Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK is $38,620. This figure is notably below the national average of $48,760, indicating localized economic factors and demand dynamics at play. The specific pay rates in this region are influenced by the local economic conditions and the overall supply and demand for dental professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,620 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 10.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,710.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 260 Dental Assistants, the job market in Fort Smith, AR-OK presents a stable environment. The Location Quotient of 1.09 suggests a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, implying a consistent, albeit not rapidly expanding, demand for their services within the area.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK earns-20.8%below the national average.
$18.6
$743
$3,218
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Dental Assistants nationwide and in regions like Fort Smith, AR-OK have experienced moderate growth over the past four years. This trend is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for dental services, and evolving responsibilities within the role.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Fort Smith, AR-OK
Salary progression for Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while senior or specialized Dental Assistants can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps between entry-level, mid-career, and senior roles reflect the career progression and increased earning potential available.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $31,180 | $15 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $28,965 | $13.9 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $35,360 | $17 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $48,275 | $23.2 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $44,710 | $21.5 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,620
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,620
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $38,620 in Fort Smith, AR-OK aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Dental Assistant's salary in this location is equivalent to the national average, suggesting that while the salary is lower than the national average, the cost of essential goods and services remains comparable.
Job Market Context
260
Total Jobs
2.666
Per 1K Jobs
1.09
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.09, Fort Smith, AR-OK has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Dental Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.09 for Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK indicates a job market with a concentration that is 9% higher than the national average. This suggests a healthy presence of Dental Assistants, implying a competitive but accessible job market for both employers seeking talent and professionals seeking employment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR Dental Assistants Salary | $42,530↑ 10% | 51 mi |
| Hot Springs, AR Dental Assistants Salary | $38,740↑ 0% | 96 mi |
Comparing salaries near Fort Smith, AR-OK
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Fort Smith, AR-OK?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK is $38,620. This typically ranges from $31,180 for entry-level positions to $44,710 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Fort Smith, AR-OK is 20.8% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Fort Smith, AR-OK a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.While the cost of living is on par with the national average, the average salary for Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK is significantly lower than the national average.
Is Fort Smith, AR-OK a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Fort Smith, AR-OK is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Fort Smith, AR-OK?
Some top paying nearby cities include Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR ($42,530) and Hot Springs, AR.
How does the number of Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK compare nationally?
Fort Smith, AR-OK has a total local workforce of 260 Dental Assistants, which represents 2.666 jobs per 1,000 workers, indicating a localized presence of this profession.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for Dental Assistants in Fort Smith, AR-OK?
An LQ of 1.09 means that Dental Assistants are 9% more concentrated in Fort Smith, AR-OK than the national average, suggesting a stable demand and a slightly higher availability of these professionals in the local market.
How does experience impact a Dental Assistant's salary in Fort Smith, AR-OK?
As with most professions, experience plays a crucial role. Entry-level Dental Assistants will earn less, while those with several years of experience and specialized skills can expect to earn substantially more, reflecting career advancement.
Is the cost of living in Fort Smith, AR-OK high?
No, the cost of living in Fort Smith, AR-OK is exactly at the national average, indicated by a Cost of Living Index of 100. This means your salary's purchasing power is comparable to the national average.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 260 employees in the Fort Smith, AR-OK area with a job density of 2.666 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 Fort Smith, AR-OK