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Average Dental Assistants Salary in Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Dental Assistants in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR area earn an average annual salary of $47,620. This figure is slightly below the national average of $48,760, a common occurrence in metropolitan areas where local economic factors and the specific demand for specialized roles can influence compensation. The unique economic landscape of the tri-state region shapes the earning potential for these vital healthcare professionals.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $47,620 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 23.8% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $59,340.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 990 Dental Assistants, the Memphis area demonstrates a stable presence in this healthcare sector. The Location Quotient of 0.66 suggests that while the profession is present, it is not as concentrated as the national average, indicating a potentially balanced job market with consistent opportunities for skilled professionals.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$47,620

The average Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN-MS-AR earns-2.3%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$22.9

Weekly

$916

Monthly

$3,968

Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Career progression for Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN-MS-AR typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior roles, which naturally commands higher compensation. While exact figures vary, the salary gap between junior and experienced professionals widens significantly, reflecting increased responsibilities, specialized skills, and a proven track record within the dental field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$36,150$17.4
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$35,715$17.2
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$46,580$22.4
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$59,525$28.6
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$59,340$28.5

Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$47,620

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$47,620

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $47,620 in Memphis, TN-MS-AR aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Dental Assistant's salary in Memphis is equivalent to the national standard, offering a stable financial footing for residents.

Job Market Context

990

Total Jobs

1.601

Per 1K Jobs

0.66

Location Quotient

Below Average

Memphis, TN-MS-AR has 0.66x 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.

The Location Quotient of 0.66 for Dental Assistants in Memphis indicates that the profession is less concentrated here compared to the national average. This suggests that while there is a steady demand, the market is not oversaturated, potentially offering good opportunities for qualified individuals entering or advancing within the field.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants

CitySalaryDist.
Jonesboro, AR Dental Assistants Salary$38,590 19%64 mi
Jackson, TN Dental Assistants Salary$44,720 6%74 mi

Comparing salaries near Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Hiring Dental Assistantss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Dental Assistants make in Memphis, TN-MS-AR?

The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is $47,620. This typically ranges from $36,150 for entry-level positions to $59,340 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 2.3% lower than the national median of $48,760.

Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?

No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.The average salary of $47,620 is slightly below the national average, and the cost of living is exactly at the national average. This indicates a comparable, rather than enhanced, earning potential.

Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a good place to live for Dental Assistants?

The Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Memphis, TN-MS-AR?

Some top paying nearby cities include Jonesboro, AR ($38,590) and Jackson, TN.

How does the Memphis Dental Assistant salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is $47,620, which is slightly lower than the national average of $48,760.

What is the Cost of Living in Memphis, TN-MS-AR for Dental Assistants?

The Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 100, which is exactly the national average. This means your salary will have the same purchasing power as it would nationally.

How concentrated is the Dental Assistant job market in Memphis?

The job market for Dental Assistants in Memphis has a Location Quotient of 0.66, indicating it is less concentrated than the national average, suggesting a balanced demand.

What is the total number of Dental Assistants in the Memphis area?

There are approximately 990 Dental Assistants employed within the Memphis, TN-MS-AR metropolitan area.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 990 employees in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR area with a job density of 1.601 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.