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California is known for great weather and great opportunities. What's a better place to live other than the golden state where you can make top bucks for the profession you choose. As a dental assistant it's important to know where you can work to earn the top dollar for the hours you put in. In this article we will go over the top 20 cities to work in to make the most amount of money as a dental assistant.

1. San Francisco

San Francisco dominated the list coming in at number one, with an average salary of $58,000. Although the city has a high cost of living, it is balanced by its generous compensation packages, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. There will always be opportunities for you in San Francisco. 

2. San Jose

Dental assistants in San Jose are earning around $56,000 per year. The advanced tech industry and high demand for dental services aid in creating competitive salaries in Silicon Valley.

3. Oakland

Oakland offers dental assistants an average salary of $54,000 annually. The city’s advanced healthcare system and proximity to major cities make it an attractive destination for dental assistants to have good salaries. 

4. Santa Clara

Santa Clara dental assistants earn $53,000 per year. Santa Clara is known for its excellent healthcare facilities. Santa Clara is a desirable city for dental assistants seeking high pay.

5. Fremont

In Fremont, dental assistants earn an average salary of $52,000 annually. This city is growing in population which drives the demand for dental services, resulting in higher wages for dental assistants.

6. San Mateo

San Mateo dental assistants can expect to earn around $51,500 per year. The city’s healthcare community contributes to competitive salaries offered to dental professionals. 

7. Irvine

Irvine offers dental assistants an average salary of $50,500 annually. The city’s high quality of life, school systems, and advancing healthcare community make it a rewarding destination for dental assistants.

8. Los Angeles

Dental assistants in Los Angeles earn approximately $50,000 per year. The city’s huge population and various dental practices provide opportunities for high salaries and career growth.

9. Anaheim

Anaheim dental assistants can expect to earn around $49,500 per year. Anaheim also offers competitive wages for dental professionals due to high tourism and attraction.

10. Santa Rosa

In Santa Rosa, dental assistants earn an average salary of $49,000. The city’s strong healthcare system and beautiful location make it a desirable place to live and work.

11. Long Beach

Long Beach offers dental assistants an average salary of $48,500. The city’s population and numerous healthcare facilities raise competitive wages for dental assistants.

12. Sacramento

Dental assistants in Sacramento earn approximately $48,000 per year. As the state capital, Sacramento boasts a strong healthcare sector and numerous employment opportunities for dental professionals.

13. Riverside

Riverside dental assistants can expect to earn around $47,500 per year. The city’s growing population and expanding healthcare services drive the demand for dental assistants, resulting in higher salaries.

14. San Diego

San Diego offers dental assistants an average salary of $47,000 annually. The city’s beautiful weather, high fashion  life, and advanced healthcare system make it an attractive destination for dental professionals.

15. Stockton

In Stockton, dental assistants earn approximately $46,500 per year. The city’s affordable cost of living and growing healthcare contribute to competitive wages. 

16. Modesto

Modesto dental assistants can expect to earn around $46,000 per year. The city’s expanding healthcare services and affordable living makes it easier for dental assistants to find the best place to work.

17. Fresno

Fresno offers dental assistants an average salary of $45,500 annually. The city’s lower cost of living and strong healthcare advancements provide an excellent opportunity for dental assistant to work and live. 

18. Bakersfield

Dental assistants in Bakersfield earn approximately $45,000 per year. The city has a growing population and increasing demand for dental services which makes dental assistants have various opportunities. 

19. Chula Vista

Chula Vista dental assistants can expect to earn around $44,500 per year. The city’s relative proximity to San Diego and expanding healthcare community leads to a higher salary for dental assistants. 

20. Santa Ana

Santa Ana offers dental assistants an average salary of $44,000 annually. The city’s diverse population and numerous dental practices provide various opportunities for high pay and career advancement.

Conclusion

California's dental assistants are among the best-compensated in the nation, particularly in cities with advanced healthcare systems and strong growing economies. From the tech hub of San Jose to the diversity of Los Angeles, dental assistants in California enjoy competitive salaries and multiple opportunities for career growth. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting in the field, these cities offer the financial rewards and fulfillment you seek.