Average Dental Assistants Salary in Montgomery, AL
In Montgomery, AL, Dental Assistants can expect an average annual salary of $38,830. This figure is notably below the national average of $48,760, suggesting that local market dynamics and economic factors specific to the Alabama capital influence compensation. Factors such as the regional demand for dental services and the overall economic health of the area play a significant role in determining this pay scale.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,830 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $51,470.
- Outlook: Montgomery's dental assistant job market is supported by a local workforce of 350 professionals. With a Location Quotient of 0.88, the concentration of dental assistants is slightly below the national average, indicating a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to other professions. The presence of 2.15 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent need for these services within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Montgomery, AL earns-20.4%below the national average.
$18.7
$747
$3,236
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Montgomery's dental assistant salaries over the past four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend mirroring national patterns. Economic growth, inflation, and increasing demand for healthcare services typically contribute to modest salary increases for skilled professionals in the dental field over time.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Montgomery, AL
Salary progression for Dental Assistants in Montgomery, AL, typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions will likely fall at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps between entry-level, mid-career, and senior roles signify clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within the profession.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $28,530 | $13.7 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $29,123 | $14 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $36,330 | $17.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $48,538 | $23.3 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $51,470 | $24.7 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,830
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,830
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $38,830 in Montgomery, AL, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal income earned by a Dental Assistant in Montgomery has purchasing power equivalent to the national average. While the salary is lower than the national average, the cost of living does not present a disadvantage, making the take-home pay's real value comparable nationally.
Job Market Context
350
Total Jobs
2.15
Per 1K Jobs
0.88
Location Quotient
Montgomery, AL has 0.88x 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.
With a Location Quotient of 0.88, Montgomery, AL, has a slightly lower concentration of Dental Assistants compared to the national average. This suggests that the job market is neither oversaturated nor exceptionally scarce. While there is a steady need for dental professionals, the market is not intensely competitive, offering a balanced environment for job seekers and employers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $35,710↓ 8% | 44 mi |
| Southeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $36,040↓ 7% | 44 mi |
| Northwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $35,540↓ 8% | 44 mi |
| Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $34,330↓ 12% | 44 mi |
| Auburn-Opelika, AL Dental Assistants Salary | $38,140↓ 2% | 49 mi |
Comparing salaries near Montgomery, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Montgomery, AL?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Montgomery, AL is $38,830. This typically ranges from $28,530 for entry-level positions to $51,470 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Montgomery, AL is 20.4% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Montgomery, AL a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $38,830 is below the national average, although the cost of living is also at the national average, mitigating some of the disparity.
Is Montgomery, AL a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Montgomery, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Montgomery, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area ($35,710) and Southeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area.
How does experience affect a Dental Assistant's salary in Montgomery?
Experience significantly impacts earning potential, with entry-level positions offering lower pay and senior roles commanding higher salaries, reflecting increased skills and responsibilities.
What is the job market like for Dental Assistants in Montgomery?
The market is stable with a concentration slightly below the national average, indicating consistent demand without excessive competition.
Does the Cost of Living in Montgomery impact salary expectations?
The Cost of Living Index is 100, matching the national average. This means the $38,830 salary has average purchasing power, neither significantly enhancing nor diminishing its value compared to national standards.
How does Montgomery's Dental Assistant workforce compare nationally?
With a Location Quotient of 0.88, the density of Dental Assistants in Montgomery is slightly lower than the national average, suggesting a balanced job market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 350 employees in the Montgomery, AL area with a job density of 2.15 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 Montgomery, AL