How to Become a Dental Assistants in North Carolina
Dental Assistants in North Carolina earn a median salary of $48,710/year, which is 3% above the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,837/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a dental assistants in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Dental Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental assistants positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 11,100 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Greensboro-High Point and Wilmington.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point | $52K | $24.76/hr | 770 |
| Wilmington | $50K | $24.25/hr | 550 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $50K | $24.16/hr | 1,620 |
| Asheville | $50K | $23.98/hr | 530 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $49K | $23.62/hr | 3,440 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $49K | $23.56/hr | 680 |
| Winston-Salem | $47K | $22.81/hr | 460 |
| Greenville | $47K | $22.49/hr | 230 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $47K | $22.48/hr | 320 |
| Burlington | $46K | $22.3/hr | 150 |
| Jacksonville | $46K | $22.11/hr | 170 |
| Fayetteville | $46K | $22.01/hr | 580 |
| Goldsboro | $46K | $21.94/hr | 120 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $46K | $21.88/hr | 120 |
| Rocky Mount | $40K | $19.36/hr | 90 |
Dental Assistants salary range in North Carolina
Dental Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental assistants make in North Carolina?▼
The median dental assistants salary in North Carolina is $48,710 per year ($23.42/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $37,330 to $59,300.
What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in North Carolina?▼
Dental Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental assistants afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $48,710, a dental assistants in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,249/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental assistants in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in North Carolina are Greensboro-High Point ($51,500), Wilmington ($50,440), Raleigh-Cary ($50,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for dental assistants?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $48,710 salary, this means roughly $2,192/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.