Average Dental Assistants Salary in Longview-Kelso, WA
Dental Assistants in the Longview-Kelso, WA area earn an average annual salary of $51,090, which is notably higher than the national average of $48,760. This elevated compensation is likely influenced by the specific demands and economic factors present within the local healthcare sector, reflecting a strong regional appreciation for these vital professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $51,090 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $59,890.
- Outlook: The Longview-Kelso area demonstrates a robust job market for Dental Assistants, with a total local workforce of 200 individuals in this role. The Location Quotient of 1.96 signifies a significant concentration of these positions compared to the national average, indicating a healthy demand and a potentially stable employment landscape for skilled dental professionals in the region.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Longview-Kelso, WA earns+4.8%above the national average.
$24.6
$983
$4,258
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Longview-Kelso is not provided, it is generally observed that salaries for Dental Assistants nationwide have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, driven by increasing healthcare needs and advancements in dental technology. This upward trend is likely mirrored in the Longview-Kelso market, suggesting that compensation for Dental Assistants in this area has also seen a positive trajectory.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Longview-Kelso, WA
Salary progression for Dental Assistants in Longview-Kelso, WA, typically correlates with experience and specialization. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with advanced skills or certifications can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within the local dental industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $38,970 | $18.7 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $38,318 | $18.4 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $46,940 | $22.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $63,863 | $30.7 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $59,890 | $28.8 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$51,090
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$51,090
Adjusted for COL (100)
For individuals considering a move to Longview-Kelso, WA, the average annual salary of $51,090 aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is equivalent to the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Dental Assistant's salary in this area is comparable to the national standard, offering a stable financial foundation without the added pressure of a significantly higher cost of living.
Job Market Context
200
Total Jobs
4.771
Per 1K Jobs
1.96
Location Quotient
Longview-Kelso, WA has 2.0x the national concentration of Dental Assistants jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a Location Quotient of 1.96, Longview-Kelso, WA, exhibits a job market for Dental Assistants that is nearly twice as concentrated as the national average. This suggests a competitive yet abundant environment where demand for these professionals is significantly higher relative to the general workforce, potentially leading to more job openings and a stronger negotiating position for qualified candidates.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA Dental Assistants Salary | $58,470↑ 14% | 46 mi |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA Dental Assistants Salary | $52,920↑ 4% | 62 mi |
| Salem, OR Dental Assistants Salary | $56,310↑ 10% | 85 mi |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA Dental Assistants Salary | $53,530↑ 5% | 97 mi |
Comparing salaries near Longview-Kelso, WA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Longview-Kelso, WA?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Longview-Kelso, WA is $51,090. This typically ranges from $38,970 for entry-level positions to $59,890 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Longview-Kelso, WA is 4.8% higher than the national median of $48,760.
Is Longview-Kelso, WA a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
Yes, Longview-Kelso, WA offers a lucrative environment for Dental Assistants.Dental Assistants in this area earn above the national average salary, and the cost of living is on par with the national average, enhancing overall financial well-being.
Is Longview-Kelso, WA a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Longview-Kelso, WA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Longview-Kelso, WA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($58,470) and Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA.
How does the Longview-Kelso salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Dental Assistants in Longview-Kelso, WA is $51,090, which is higher than the national average of $48,760.
What is the concentration of Dental Assistants in Longview-Kelso, WA?
The concentration, measured by the Location Quotient, is 1.96, indicating that Dental Assistants are nearly twice as prevalent in Longview-Kelso compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living affect the salary in Longview-Kelso, WA?
The cost of living in Longview-Kelso, WA is 100, matching the national average. This means the $51,090 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national standard.
What is the total number of Dental Assistants in Longview-Kelso, WA?
There are approximately 200 Dental Assistants employed in the Longview-Kelso, WA area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 200 employees in the Longview-Kelso, WA area with a job density of 4.771 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 Longview-Kelso, WA