How to Become a Dental Hygienists in North Carolina
Dental Hygienists in North Carolina earn a median salary of $89,720/year, which is 5% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $4,210/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a dental hygienists in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in North Carolina typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists 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 hygienistss. 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 7,030 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in Durham-Chapel Hill and Raleigh-Cary.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $98K | $47.17/hr | 420 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $97K | $46.56/hr | 1,070 |
| Asheville | $96K | $46/hr | 350 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $94K | $45.01/hr | 1,780 |
| Wilmington | $91K | $43.9/hr | 480 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $91K | $43.75/hr | 90 |
| Burlington | $91K | $43.65/hr | 120 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $90K | $43.27/hr | 250 |
| Winston-Salem | $85K | $40.9/hr | 420 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $82K | $39.35/hr | 540 |
| Rocky Mount | $82K | $39.29/hr | 60 |
| Fayetteville | $80K | $38.61/hr | 310 |
| Greenville | $80K | $38.48/hr | 140 |
| Goldsboro | $79K | $38.1/hr | 80 |
| Jacksonville | $77K | $37.13/hr | 150 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in North Carolina
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in North Carolina?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in North Carolina is $89,720 per year ($43.14/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $76,860 to $99,570.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in North Carolina?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in North Carolina typically require Associate's degree. 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 hygienists afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $89,720, a dental hygienists in North Carolina would take home approximately $5,622/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in North Carolina are Durham-Chapel Hill ($98,120), Raleigh-Cary ($96,850), Asheville ($95,680). 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 hygienists?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $89,720 salary, this means roughly $4,037/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.