How to Become a Dental Assistants in Illinois
Dental Assistants in Illinois earn a median salary of $47,430/year, which is 0% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,738/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in Illinois
Becoming a dental assistants in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Dental Assistants positions in Illinois typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental assistants positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 15,620 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Kankakee.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $48K | $22.87/hr | 12,310 |
| Kankakee | $46K | $22.25/hr | 70 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $45K | $21.78/hr | 190 |
| Bloomington | $45K | $21.64/hr | 160 |
| Springfield | $45K | $21.53/hr | 180 |
| Rockford | $45K | $21.47/hr | 340 |
| Decatur | $44K | $21.31/hr | 70 |
| Peoria | $44K | $21.02/hr | 300 |
Dental Assistants salary range in Illinois
Dental Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental assistants make in Illinois?▼
The median dental assistants salary in Illinois is $47,430 per year ($22.8/hr). This is 0% above the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $33,510 to $58,620.
What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in Illinois?▼
Dental Assistants positions in Illinois typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental assistants afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $47,430, a dental assistants in Illinois would take home approximately $3,150/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental assistants in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($47,570), Kankakee ($46,270), Champaign-Urbana ($45,290). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for dental assistants?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $47,430 salary, this means roughly $2,348/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.