Average Dental Assistants Salary in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area
In the Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area, Dental Assistants earn an average annual salary of $42,110. This figure is notably below the national average of $48,760, reflecting regional economic factors and a potentially lower demand for specialized roles compared to urban centers. The specific economic landscape and healthcare infrastructure of this nonmetropolitan region play a significant role in shaping compensation levels for dental professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,110 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 33.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $54,510.
- Outlook: The job market for Dental Assistants in Southeast Missouri's nonmetropolitan area appears stable, with a total local workforce of 310 individuals. The location quotient of 0.78 suggests a slightly lower concentration of these roles compared to the national average, indicating that while the profession is present, it is not disproportionately concentrated. The rate of 1.894 jobs per 1,000 workers further supports a steady, albeit not exceptionally high, demand for Dental Assistants in this region.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area earns-13.6%below the national average.
$20.2
$810
$3,509
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this nonmetropolitan area is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth for Dental Assistants over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic recovery, increased patient demand for dental services, and a growing awareness of the importance of dental hygiene likely contribute to incremental salary increases, even in less urbanized areas.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Dental Assistants typically involves gaining experience and potentially acquiring specialized certifications. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with several years of experience and advanced skills can command salaries significantly higher than the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution highlight clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential as Dental Assistants develop their expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $31,030 | $14.9 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $31,583 | $15.2 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $38,690 | $18.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $52,638 | $25.3 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $54,510 | $26.2 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,110
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,110
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $42,110 in Southeast Missouri's nonmetropolitan area aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that, on average, the purchasing power of a Dental Assistant's salary in this region is comparable to that of a Dental Assistant earning the national average in a location with average living costs. Therefore, the salary offers a standard level of economic comfort relative to the local expenses.
Job Market Context
310
Total Jobs
1.894
Per 1K Jobs
0.78
Location Quotient
Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area has 0.78x 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 0.78, Southeast Missouri's nonmetropolitan area has a slightly lower concentration of Dental Assistants than the national average. This suggests that the job market may be less saturated compared to national benchmarks, potentially offering a more accessible entry point for new professionals. However, it also implies that the overall demand, while steady, is not exceptionally high, making it important for job seekers to understand the specific needs of local dental practices.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Jefferson City, MO Dental Assistants Salary | $40,560↓ 4% | 10 mi |
| Columbia, MO Dental Assistants Salary | $44,100↑ 5% | 34 mi |
Comparing salaries near Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area is $42,110. This typically ranges from $31,030 for entry-level positions to $54,510 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area is 13.6% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to national averages.The average salary of $42,110 is below the national average, and while the cost of living is also at the national average, the overall compensation is not considered highly lucrative.
Is Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Jefferson City, MO ($40,560) and Columbia, MO.
How does the salary compare to the national average for Dental Assistants?
Dental Assistants in Southeast Missouri's nonmetropolitan area earn an average of $42,110 annually, which is $6,650 less than the national average of $48,760.
What is the concentration of Dental Assistants in this region?
The location quotient of 0.78 indicates that Dental Assistants are slightly less concentrated in this nonmetropolitan area compared to the national average.
Does the cost of living affect the value of the salary?
The local Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means the $42,110 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it neither exceptionally high nor low in terms of affordability.
How many Dental Assistants work in this region?
There are approximately 310 Dental Assistants employed in the Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 310 employees in the Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 1.894 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 Southeast Missouri nonmetropolitan area