Average Dental Assistants Salary in Merced, CA
The average salary for a Dental Assistants in Merced, CA is $51,440. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $51,440 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 39.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $60,370.
- Outlook: The current demand for Dental Assistantss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 180 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Merced, CA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Merced, CA earns+5.5%above the national average.
$24.7
$989
$4,287
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Dental Assistants salaries in Merced, CA have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 39.0%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Merced, CA
The earning potential for Dental Assistantss in Merced, CA 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 $36,390, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $60,370.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $36,390 | $17.5 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $38,580 | $18.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $47,420 | $22.8 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $64,300 | $30.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $60,370 | $29 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$51,440
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$51,440
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Merced, CA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $51,440 to $51,440.
Job Market Context
180
Total Jobs
2.265
Per 1K Jobs
0.93
Location Quotient
Merced, CA has 0.93x 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.
180 people work as Dental Assistants in Merced, CA.
Moderate density — roughly 2.265 out of every 1,000 local jobs are in this profession.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Modesto, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $49,980↓ 3% | 37 mi |
| Fresno, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $51,520↑ 0% | 52 mi |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $51,740↑ 1% | 65 mi |
| Salinas, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $55,460↑ 8% | 77 mi |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA Dental Assistants Salary | $69,810↑ 36% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Merced, CA
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Merced, CA?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Merced, CA is $51,440. This typically ranges from $36,390 for entry-level positions to $60,370 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Merced, CA is 5.5% higher than the national median of $48,760.
Is Merced, CA a good place for Dental Assistantss?
Yes, Merced, CA is financially attractive for Dental Assistantss. The average salary of $51,440 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Merced, CA a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Merced, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Merced, CA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Modesto, CA ($49,980) and Fresno, CA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 180 employees in the Merced, CA area with a job density of 2.265 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 Merced, CA