How to Become a Dental Assistants in Michigan
Dental Assistants in Michigan earn a median salary of $47,030/year, which is 1% below the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,740/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in Michigan
Becoming a dental assistants in Michigan
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.
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.
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.
Find positions in Michigan
Michigan employs 11,830 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Battle Creek and Ann Arbor.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Michigan
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battle Creek | $51K | $24.28/hr | 90 |
| Ann Arbor | $50K | $24.2/hr | 440 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood | $48K | $23/hr | 1,260 |
| Lansing-East Lansing | $47K | $22.77/hr | 490 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn | $47K | $22.75/hr | 6,270 |
| Jackson | $47K | $22.41/hr | 140 |
| Midland | $47K | $22.4/hr | 120 |
| Flint | $46K | $22.15/hr | 420 |
| Bay City | $46K | $22.13/hr | 80 |
| Traverse City | $46K | $21.93/hr | 280 |
| Monroe | $46K | $21.93/hr | 80 |
| Niles | $45K | $21.84/hr | 110 |
| Muskegon-Norton Shores | $45K | $21.69/hr | 140 |
| Saginaw | $45K | $21.46/hr | 170 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage | $44K | $21.31/hr | 260 |
Dental Assistants salary range in Michigan
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 $47,030 per year ($22.61/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $36,290 to $56,750.
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 $47,030, a dental assistants in Michigan would take home approximately $3,152/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 Michigan?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Michigan are Battle Creek ($50,500), Ann Arbor ($50,340), Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood ($47,840). 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 $47,030 salary, this means roughly $1,999/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.