Average Dental Assistants Salary in Rockford, IL
Dental Assistants in Rockford, IL, earn an average annual salary of $43,820. This figure is slightly below the national average of $48,760, a common occurrence in markets where specific local economic factors and demand dynamics influence compensation levels. The pay scale in Rockford reflects a balance between the cost of living and the localized demand for these essential healthcare professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $43,820 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $55,750.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 340 Dental Assistants, Rockford, IL, presents a stable employment landscape for this profession. The Location Quotient of 1.01 indicates that the concentration of Dental Assistants in Rockford is very close to the national average, suggesting a steady but not exceptionally high demand relative to other occupations.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Rockford, IL earns-10.1%below the national average.
$21.1
$843
$3,652
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Rockford's Dental Assistant salaries is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in compensation over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic growth, inflation, and increasing demand for dental services typically drive modest salary increases for healthcare support roles.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Rockford, IL
The salary progression for Dental Assistants in Rockford, IL, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or expanded responsibilities can command salaries in the higher percentiles. This variance signifies clear career growth opportunities within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $35,050 | $16.9 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $32,865 | $15.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $44,670 | $21.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $54,775 | $26.3 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $55,750 | $26.8 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$43,820
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$43,820
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $43,820 in Rockford, IL, 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 Rockford is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
340
Total Jobs
2.469
Per 1K Jobs
1.01
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.01, Rockford, IL has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Dental Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.01 for Dental Assistants in Rockford, IL, suggests that the job market for this role is neither significantly over-saturated nor experiencing exceptionally high demand compared to the national landscape. This indicates a balanced market where opportunities are consistent with the general availability of such positions across the country.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Janesville-Beloit, WI Dental Assistants Salary | $47,380↑ 8% | 30 mi |
| Madison, WI Dental Assistants Salary | $50,930↑ 16% | 59 mi |
| Kenosha, WI Dental Assistants Salary | $49,350↑ 13% | 65 mi |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant, WI Dental Assistants Salary | $46,540↑ 6% | 71 mi |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN Dental Assistants Salary | $48,300↑ 10% | 78 mi |
Comparing salaries near Rockford, IL
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Rockford, IL?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Rockford, IL is $43,820. This typically ranges from $35,050 for entry-level positions to $55,750 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Rockford, IL is 10.1% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Rockford, IL a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
No, but it is stable.While the average salary of $43,820 is below the national average, it is balanced by a cost of living that is also at the national average, providing stable purchasing power.
Is Rockford, IL a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Rockford, IL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Rockford, IL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Janesville-Beloit, WI ($47,380) and Madison, WI.
How does experience affect a Dental Assistant's salary in Rockford, IL?
Experience is a key factor; entry-level Dental Assistants earn less, while those with several years of experience and advanced skills can secure higher salaries, moving into the upper salary percentiles.
What is the job outlook for Dental Assistants in Rockford, IL?
The outlook is stable, with a concentration of Dental Assistants at the national average, indicating consistent demand without rapid growth or decline.
Is the cost of living high in Rockford, IL for Dental Assistants?
No, the cost of living in Rockford, IL, is at the national average, meaning a Dental Assistant's salary here has the same purchasing power as the national average.
How does Rockford's Dental Assistant salary compare to the national average?
The average salary of $43,820 in Rockford is approximately 10% lower than the national average of $48,760.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 340 employees in the Rockford, IL area with a job density of 2.469 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 Rockford, IL