How to Become a Dental Hygienists in Louisiana
Dental Hygienists in Louisiana earn a median salary of $80,900/year, which is 14% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $3,792/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a dental hygienists in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in Louisiana typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists positions in Louisiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental hygienistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 2,720 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in Baton Rouge and New Orleans-Metairie.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge | $97K | $46.43/hr | 600 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $83K | $40.11/hr | 720 |
| Lafayette | $82K | $39.56/hr | 250 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $81K | $38.93/hr | 110 |
| Lake Charles | $81K | $38.81/hr | 70 |
| Alexandria | $80K | $38.28/hr | 70 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $79K | $37.87/hr | 250 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $78K | $37.59/hr | 250 |
| Hammond | $77K | $36.99/hr | 60 |
| Monroe | $76K | $36.73/hr | 170 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in Louisiana
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in Louisiana?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in Louisiana is $80,900 per year ($38.9/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $43,230 to $99,230.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in Louisiana?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in Louisiana typically require Associate's degree. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental hygienists afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $80,900, a dental hygienists in Louisiana would take home approximately $5,204/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in Louisiana are Baton Rouge ($96,570), New Orleans-Metairie ($83,420), Lafayette ($82,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $80,900 salary, this means roughly $2,857/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.