How to Become a Dental Hygienists in Florida
Dental Hygienists in Florida earn a median salary of $81,090/year, which is 14% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $4,041/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in Florida
Becoming a dental hygienists in Florida
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in Florida typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental hygienistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 13,860 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota and Naples-Marco Island.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $98K | $47.27/hr | 540 |
| Naples-Marco Island | $96K | $46.16/hr | 240 |
| Jacksonville | $93K | $44.53/hr | 730 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | $91K | $43.88/hr | 70 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $90K | $43.5/hr | 2,410 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $87K | $41.73/hr | 110 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $84K | $40.54/hr | 510 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $83K | $39.71/hr | 1,620 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $82K | $39.65/hr | 130 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | $81K | $38.87/hr | 90 |
| Homosassa Springs | $81K | $38.78/hr | 40 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $80K | $38.68/hr | 260 |
| Ocala | $80K | $38.56/hr | 160 |
| Punta Gorda | $80K | $38.44/hr | 110 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $80K | $38.36/hr | 270 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in Florida
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in Florida?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in Florida is $81,090 per year ($38.99/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $73,210 to $97,080.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in Florida?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in Florida typically require Associate's degree. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental hygienists afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $81,090, a dental hygienists in Florida would take home approximately $5,453/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in Florida are North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($98,320), Naples-Marco Island ($96,010), Jacksonville ($92,630). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means dental hygienists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.