Average Dental Assistants Salary in Wilmington, NC
Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC, can expect an average annual salary of $50,980, which is notably higher than the national average of $48,760. This elevated compensation is likely influenced by the specific demands and economic factors within the Wilmington metropolitan area, reflecting a localized premium for skilled dental professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $50,980 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 27.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $58,690.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 550 Dental Assistants and a Location Quotient of 1.21, Wilmington, NC, shows a healthy concentration of these professionals relative to the national average. This suggests a stable and potentially growing demand for dental assistants in the region, indicating a robust job market for those in the field.
Salary Overview
The average Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC earns+4.6%above the national average.
$24.5
$980
$4,248
Dental Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC, have seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This upward trajectory is typically driven by increasing healthcare demands, inflation, and the continuous need for skilled dental support staff.
Dental Assistants Salary Distribution in Wilmington, NC
The career path for Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC, typically involves a clear salary progression. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower percentiles, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or those in lead roles can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting significant career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $38,130 | $18.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $38,235 | $18.4 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $50,440 | $24.3 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $63,725 | $30.6 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $58,690 | $28.2 |
Detailed Dental Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$50,980
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$50,980
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $50,980 in Wilmington, NC, 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 Wilmington is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
550
Total Jobs
2.954
Per 1K Jobs
1.21
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.21, Wilmington, NC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Dental Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.21 indicates that Wilmington, NC, has a higher concentration of Dental Assistants than the national average. This suggests a competitive yet abundant job market, where employers may actively seek qualified candidates, and professionals have a good number of opportunities available within the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Dental Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville, NC Dental Assistants Salary | $44,930↓ 12% | 46 mi |
| Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC Dental Assistants Salary | $43,980↓ 14% | 67 mi |
| Goldsboro, NC Dental Assistants Salary | $45,350↓ 11% | 81 mi |
| Fayetteville, NC Dental Assistants Salary | $45,810↓ 10% | 87 mi |
| Greenville, NC Dental Assistants Salary | $46,180↓ 9% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near Wilmington, NC
Hiring Dental Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dental Assistants make in Wilmington, NC?
The median annual salary for a Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC is $50,980. This typically ranges from $38,130 for entry-level positions to $58,690 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Wilmington, NC is 4.6% higher than the national median of $48,760.
Is Wilmington, NC a lucrative place for Dental Assistants?
Yes, Wilmington, NC offers a slightly more lucrative environment for Dental Assistants compared to the national average.The average salary of $50,980 is above the national average, and the cost of living is on par, meaning your earnings will go further in Wilmington.
Is Wilmington, NC a good place to live for Dental Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Wilmington, NC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Wilmington, NC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Jacksonville, NC ($44,930) and Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC.
How does Wilmington's Dental Assistant salary compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC, earn an average of $50,980 annually, which is approximately $2,220 more than the national average salary of $48,760.
What is the concentration of Dental Assistants in Wilmington, NC?
Wilmington, NC has a Location Quotient of 1.21 for Dental Assistants, indicating a 21% higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living in Wilmington, NC affect Dental Assistant salaries?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Wilmington's cost of living is exactly the national average. This means the $50,980 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
What is the total number of Dental Assistants employed in Wilmington, NC?
There are approximately 550 Dental Assistants employed in Wilmington, NC, contributing to the local healthcare sector.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 550 employees in the Wilmington, NC area with a job density of 2.954 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 Wilmington, NC