Skip to content
AffordMap
Healthcare Support · Michigan

How to Become a Dental Assistants in Michigan

Dental Assistants in Michigan earn a median salary of $48,820/year, which is 2% above the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $2,006/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$49K
Median salary in Michigan
+2%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
11,990
Employed in Michigan

What a dental assistants can afford in Michigan

Gross annual salary$48,820
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$3,266/mo
Median 2BR rent (Michigan)-$1,260/mo
Rent as % of take-home38.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$48,820/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,006/mo

Becoming a dental assistants in Michigan

1

Meet education requirements

Dental Assistants positions in Michigan typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many dental assistants positions in Michigan require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Michigan licensure or certification

Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Michigan

Michigan employs 11,990 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Lansing-East Lansing and Ann Arbor.

Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Michigan

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Lansing-East Lansing$56K$26.99/hr550
Ann Arbor$53K$25.66/hr490
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood$50K$24.27/hr1,470
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn$50K$24.09/hr6,030
Flint$48K$23.25/hr430
Midland$48K$23.25/hr130
Kalamazoo-Portage$47K$22.56/hr280
Traverse City$47K$22.55/hr290
Muskegon-Norton Shores$47K$22.39/hr170
Monroe$46K$22.27/hr70
Niles$46K$22.2/hr130
Saginaw$46K$22.14/hr170
Jackson$46K$21.9/hr150
Bay City$45K$21.67/hr90
Battle Creek$45K$21.57/hr100

Dental Assistants salary range in Michigan

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$45K
Median (50th)
$49K
75th percentile
$57K
90th percentile (senior)
$59K
View jobs for Dental Assistants
Currently hiring in Michigan
View →
More openings for Dental Assistants
Currently hiring in Michigan
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs, 45% off select certificates
View →
Full dental assistants salary breakdown in Michigan
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Michigan
After federal + 4.3% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Michigan cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Dental Assistants careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a dental assistants make in Michigan?

The median dental assistants salary in Michigan is $48,820 per year ($23.47/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $48,070. Salaries range from $37,110 to $58,900.

What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in Michigan?

Dental Assistants positions in Michigan typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a dental assistants afford to live in Michigan?

At the median salary of $48,820, a dental assistants in Michigan would take home approximately $3,266/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,260/month, that's 38.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for dental assistants in Michigan?

The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Michigan are Lansing-East Lansing ($56,150), Ann Arbor ($53,370), Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood ($50,490). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Michigan have state income tax for dental assistants?

Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $48,820 salary, this means roughly $2,075/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.