Average Dental Assistants Salary in Topeka, KS
Dental Assistants in Topeka, KS, can expect an average annual salary of $44,770. This figure is slightly below the national average of $48,760, a common occurrence in markets where local economic factors and demand dynamics influence compensation. While Topeka's cost of living is on par with the national average, this salary reflects the specific employment landscape for dental professionals in the region.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $44,770 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 17.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $56,970.
- Outlook: The Topeka, KS, job market for Dental Assistants is characterized by a local workforce of 220 professionals. With a Location Quotient of 0.79, the concentration of Dental Assistants in Topeka is slightly below the national average, suggesting a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to other professions. The presence of nearly 2 professionals per 1,000 workers indicates a consistent need for these services within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Topeka, KS earns-8.2%below the national average.
$21.5
$861
$3,731
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Topeka'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 dental services typically contribute to salary increases for healthcare support roles. Therefore, Dental Assistants in Topeka have likely seen their earning potential grow over the last half-decade.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Topeka, KS
Salary progression for Dental Assistants in Topeka, KS, is significantly influenced by experience and specialization. Entry-level positions typically command salaries at the lower end of the spectrum, while seasoned professionals with advanced certifications or specialized skills can earn considerably more. The gap between the 25th percentile (entry-level) and the 75th percentile (experienced) salaries clearly illustrates the career growth and earning potential available within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $36,520 | $17.6 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $33,578 | $16.1 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $46,230 | $22.2 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $55,963 | $26.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $56,970 | $27.4 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$44,770
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$44,770
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $44,770 in Topeka, KS, 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 Topeka is equivalent to that of someone earning the national average salary in a location with average living costs. Consequently, the nominal salary translates directly to the expected standard of living without significant adjustments for local expenses.
Job Market Context
220
Total Jobs
1.931
Per 1K Jobs
0.79
Location Quotient
Topeka, KS has 0.79x 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 0.79, Topeka, KS, has a slightly lower concentration of Dental Assistants compared to the national average. This suggests that while the profession is established, it is not disproportionately represented in the local job market. This could indicate a balanced demand and supply, potentially offering moderate competition for job seekers but also signifying a steady employment environment for those in the field.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lawrence, KS Dental Assistants Salary | $44,180↓ 1% | 24 mi |
| Manhattan, KS Dental Assistants Salary | $41,690↓ 7% | 50 mi |
| Kansas City, MO-KS Dental Assistants Salary | $46,610↑ 4% | 60 mi |
| Kansas nonmetropolitan area Dental Assistants Salary | $36,760↓ 18% | 66 mi |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS Dental Assistants Salary | $44,590↓ 0% | 68 mi |
Comparing salaries near Topeka, KS
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Topeka, KS?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Topeka, KS is $44,770. This typically ranges from $36,520 for entry-level positions to $56,970 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Topeka, KS is 8.2% lower than the national median of $48,760.
Is Topeka, KS a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $44,770 is below the national average of $48,760. The slightly lower concentration also suggests moderate demand.
Is Topeka, KS a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Topeka, KS is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Topeka, KS?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lawrence, KS ($44,180) and Manhattan, KS.
What is the average salary for a Dental Assistant in Topeka, KS?
The average annual salary for a Dental Assistant in Topeka, KS, is $44,770.
How does Topeka's cost of living compare to the national average?
Topeka, KS, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average. This means the cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.
Is the demand for Dental Assistants high in Topeka, KS?
The demand is moderate, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 0.79, which is slightly below the national average. There are approximately 1.931 Dental Assistants per 1,000 workers.
How does experience affect a Dental Assistant's salary in Topeka?
Experience significantly impacts earnings, with entry-level positions offering lower pay and senior roles commanding higher salaries. The difference between the 25th and 75th percentile salaries highlights this career progression.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 220 employees in the Topeka, KS area with a job density of 1.931 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Dental Assistants Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Topeka, KS
- All Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Business and Financial Operations Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Healthcare Support Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Production Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
- Browse All Jobs in Topeka, KS →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Dental Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Topeka, KS