Average Dental Assistants Salary in Richmond, VA
Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA, earn an average annual salary of $47,900. This figure is slightly below the national average of $48,760, indicating a minor difference in compensation influenced by local economic factors and the specific demand within the Richmond metropolitan area. The cost of living in Richmond aligns perfectly with the national average, suggesting that this salary offers a comparable standard of living.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $47,900 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $59,690.
- Outlook: Richmond, VA, supports a robust workforce of 1,570 Dental Assistants. With a Location Quotient of 0.99, the concentration of these professionals is nearly on par with the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for their services. The presence of 2.407 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the steady employment opportunities available in this sector within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA earns-1.8%below the national average.
$23
$921
$3,992
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Richmond is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Dental Assistants in the area have seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increasing demand for dental services, advancements in dental technology, and the rising cost of living, all of which contribute to upward pressure on wages.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Richmond, VA
The salary trajectory for Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps between entry-level, mid-career, and senior roles highlight clear opportunities for career progression and increased earning potential within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $37,970 | $18.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $35,925 | $17.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $46,740 | $22.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $59,875 | $28.8 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $59,690 | $28.7 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$47,900
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$47,900
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $47,900 and a Cost of Living Index of 100, Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA, can expect their earnings to align closely with the national average purchasing power. This means that the nominal salary translates effectively to the cost of goods and services, offering a stable financial footing for residents.
Job Market Context
1,570
Total Jobs
2.407
Per 1K Jobs
0.99
Location Quotient
Richmond, VA has 0.99x 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 0.99 for Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA, indicates that the job market is highly representative of the national landscape. This suggests a balanced supply and demand for Dental Assistants, meaning the market is neither overly saturated nor experiencing a significant shortage. Professionals can expect a competitive yet accessible job market.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southside Virginia nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $44,000↓ 8% | 41 mi |
| Northern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $37,430↓ 22% | 41 mi |
| Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $44,260↓ 8% | 41 mi |
| Northwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $43,600↓ 9% | 41 mi |
| Southern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $37,020↓ 23% | 41 mi |
Comparing salaries near Richmond, VA
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Richmond, VA?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA is $47,900. This typically ranges from $37,970 for entry-level positions to $59,690 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Richmond, VA is 1.8% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Richmond, VA a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
Yes, Richmond, VA offers a stable earning potential for Dental Assistants.The average salary of $47,900, combined with a national average cost of living, provides a solid financial standing. The market's concentration suggests consistent job availability.
Is Richmond, VA a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Richmond, VA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Richmond, VA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southside Virginia nonmetropolitan area ($44,000) and Northern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area.
How does Richmond's Dental Assistant salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA, is $47,900, which is slightly lower than the national average of $48,760.
What is the job market like for Dental Assistants in Richmond, VA?
Richmond has a stable job market for Dental Assistants, with a concentration (Location Quotient) very close to the national average, indicating balanced demand and supply.
Does the cost of living in Richmond affect the value of the Dental Assistant salary?
No, the cost of living in Richmond is exactly at the national average (100), meaning the $47,900 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
How many Dental Assistants work in Richmond, VA?
There are approximately 1,570 Dental Assistants employed in the Richmond, VA area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,570 employees in the Richmond, VA area with a job density of 2.407 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 Richmond, VA