How to Become a Dental Assistants in Virginia
Dental Assistants in Virginia earn a median salary of $46,910/year, which is 1% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,717/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in Virginia
Becoming a dental assistants in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Dental Assistants positions in Virginia typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental assistants positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 11,040 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Richmond and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond | $47K | $22.47/hr | 1,570 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $47K | $22.42/hr | 2,070 |
| Charlottesville | $45K | $21.85/hr | 280 |
| Lynchburg | $45K | $21.59/hr | 210 |
| Winchester | $45K | $21.54/hr | 200 |
| Harrisonburg | $45K | $21.42/hr | 190 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $45K | $21.4/hr | 120 |
| Roanoke | $44K | $21.35/hr | 330 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $44K | $21.34/hr | 100 |
Dental Assistants salary range in Virginia
Dental Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental assistants make in Virginia?▼
The median dental assistants salary in Virginia is $46,910 per year ($22.55/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $37,670 to $59,920.
What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in Virginia?▼
Dental Assistants positions in Virginia typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental assistants afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $46,910, a dental assistants in Virginia would take home approximately $3,129/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental assistants in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Virginia are Richmond ($46,740), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($46,620), Charlottesville ($45,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for dental assistants?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $46,910 salary, this means roughly $2,181/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.