How to Become a Dental Hygienists in California
Dental Hygienists in California earn a median salary of $121,080/year, which is 28% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.1%. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $5,764/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in California
Becoming a dental hygienists in California
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in California typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental hygienistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 22,940 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Vallejo.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $135K | $64.91/hr | 1,560 |
| Vallejo | $134K | $64.64/hr | 190 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $132K | $63.47/hr | 280 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $132K | $63.27/hr | 320 |
| Napa | $128K | $61.46/hr | 100 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $127K | $61.11/hr | 170 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $125K | $59.88/hr | 350 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $123K | $58.9/hr | 570 |
| Salinas | $122K | $58.68/hr | 170 |
| Yuba City | $122K | $58.5/hr | 70 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $121K | $58.32/hr | 2,180 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $121K | $58.22/hr | 220 |
| Modesto | $121K | $58.18/hr | 210 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $120K | $57.84/hr | 2,000 |
| Chico | $119K | $57.21/hr | 110 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in California
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in California?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in California is $121,080 per year ($58.21/hr). This is 28% above the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $56,330 to $137,460.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in California?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in California typically require Associate's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental hygienists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $121,080, a dental hygienists in California would take home approximately $7,176/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($135,010), Vallejo ($134,450), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($132,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.1%. On a $121,080 salary, this means roughly $7,398/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.