How to Become a Dental Assistants in Florida
Dental Assistants in Florida earn a median salary of $47,060/year, which is 1% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,909/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in Florida
Becoming a dental assistants in Florida
Meet education requirements
Dental Assistants positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental assistants positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 23,020 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $60K | $28.61/hr | 510 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $49K | $23.44/hr | 1,210 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $48K | $23.05/hr | 3,000 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $48K | $22.84/hr | 2,980 |
| Jacksonville | $47K | $22.83/hr | 2,020 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $47K | $22.4/hr | 710 |
| Punta Gorda | $47K | $22.38/hr | 170 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $46K | $22.19/hr | 250 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | $46K | $22.16/hr | 150 |
| Gainesville | $46K | $22.05/hr | 360 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | $46K | $21.98/hr | 90 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $46K | $21.91/hr | 460 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $46K | $21.89/hr | 7,190 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $45K | $21.57/hr | 470 |
| Ocala | $45K | $21.5/hr | 330 |
Dental Assistants salary range in Florida
Dental Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental assistants make in Florida?▼
The median dental assistants salary in Florida is $47,060 per year ($22.63/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $37,430 to $57,950.
What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in Florida?▼
Dental Assistants positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental assistants afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $47,060, a dental assistants in Florida would take home approximately $3,321/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental assistants in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($59,520), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($48,760), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater ($47,940). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for dental assistants?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means dental assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.