How to Become a Dentists, General in California
Dentists, Generals in California earn a median salary of $178,540/year, which is 3% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.1%. After taxes and rent, a dentists, general takes home approximately $8,604/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a dentists, general can afford in California
Becoming a dentists, general in California
Meet education requirements
Dentists, General positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dentists, general 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 dentists, generals. 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 14,760 dentists, generals. The highest concentrations are in Hanford-Corcoran and San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles.
Dentists, General salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hanford-Corcoran | $229K | $109.95/hr | 60 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $210K | $101.03/hr | 110 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $205K | $98.74/hr | 1,680 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $204K | $98.23/hr | 760 |
| Visalia | $204K | $98.07/hr | 130 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $203K | $97.37/hr | — |
| Modesto | $201K | $96.68/hr | 150 |
| Vallejo | $196K | $94.19/hr | 140 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $181K | $87.13/hr | 1,480 |
| Yuba City | $179K | $85.89/hr | 40 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $177K | $85.08/hr | 1,950 |
| Redding | $177K | $85.04/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $176K | $84.71/hr | 4,300 |
| Salinas | $176K | $84.57/hr | 160 |
| Fresno | $174K | $83.49/hr | 370 |
Dentists, General salary range in California
Dentists, General careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dentists, general make in California?▼
The median dentists, general salary in California is $178,540 per year ($85.84/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $172,790. Salaries range from $97,280 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a dentists, general in California?▼
Dentists, General positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dentists, general afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $178,540, a dentists, general in California would take home approximately $10,016/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 14.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dentists, generals in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dentists, generals in California are Hanford-Corcoran ($228,700), San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles ($210,140), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($205,380). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for dentists, generals?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.1%. On a $178,540 salary, this means roughly $12,742/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.