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Average Dental Assistants Salary in Wichita, KS

In Wichita, KS, Dental Assistants can expect an average annual salary of $42,560. This figure is notably below the national average of $48,760, reflecting localized economic factors and demand within the Wichita metropolitan area. The specific pay rates are often influenced by the region's overall economic health and the competitive landscape for dental professionals.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $42,560 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $55,010.
  • Outlook: Wichita supports a robust workforce of approximately 750 Dental Assistants. With a Location Quotient of 1.0, the concentration of these professionals aligns precisely with the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for their services within the local healthcare ecosystem. This indicates a healthy job market where opportunities are readily available for qualified individuals.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$42,560

The average Dental Assistants in Wichita, KS earns-12.7%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$20.5

Weekly

$818

Monthly

$3,547

Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Wichita, KS

Salary progression for Dental Assistants in Wichita, much like elsewhere, is significantly tied to experience. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory roles can earn considerably more. The gap between the 25th percentile (entry-level) and the 75th percentile (experienced) often signifies substantial career growth and earning potential within the field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$34,980$16.8
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$31,920$15.3
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$40,140$19.3
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$53,200$25.6
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$55,010$26.4

Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$42,560

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$42,560

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $42,560 in Wichita, KS, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the nominal income earned by a Dental Assistant in Wichita holds its purchasing power at the national standard, offering a balanced financial environment for residents.

Job Market Context

750

Total Jobs

2.442

Per 1K Jobs

1

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.00, Wichita, KS has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Dental Assistants roles compared to the national norm.

A Location Quotient of 1.0 for Dental Assistants in Wichita indicates that the profession is represented in the local workforce at a rate consistent with the national average. This suggests a balanced job market, neither overly saturated nor significantly undersupplied, implying steady employment opportunities for Dental Assistants without extreme competition or scarcity.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants

Comparing salaries near Wichita, KS

Hiring Dental Assistantss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Dental Assistants make in Wichita, KS?

The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Wichita, KS is $42,560. This typically ranges from $34,980 for entry-level positions to $55,010 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Wichita, KS is 12.7% lower than the national median of $48,760.

Is Wichita, 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 $42,560 is below the national average of $48,760. This suggests that while stable, the earning potential may not be as high as in other regions.

Is Wichita, KS a good place to live for Dental Assistants?

The Cost of Living Index in Wichita, KS is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Wichita, KS?

Some top paying nearby cities include Kansas nonmetropolitan area ($36,760) and Enid, OK.

How does Wichita's Dental Assistant salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for Dental Assistants in Wichita, KS is $42,560, which is lower than the national average of $48,760.

What is the Cost of Living in Wichita, KS for Dental Assistants?

Wichita, KS has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average, meaning the purchasing power of your salary is standard.

How concentrated is the Dental Assistant job market in Wichita?

The job market concentration, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.0, is at the national average, suggesting a balanced supply and demand for Dental Assistants.

What is the total number of Dental Assistants employed in Wichita?

There are approximately 750 Dental Assistants employed in Wichita, KS, contributing to a stable local healthcare workforce.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 750 employees in the Wichita, KS area with a job density of 2.442 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.