Dental Assistants vs. Nursing Assistants: Who Earns More?
Dental Assistantss out-earn Nursing Assistantss by $6K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Dental Assistantss land at $48,070 and Nursing Assistantss at $42,260. The education gap is real: dental assistant programs typically require postsecondary nondegree award, while nursing assistant programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Dental Assistantss is Minnesota ($65,270); for Nursing Assistantss it's Oregon ($49,830).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Dental Assistants median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Dental Assistantss or Nursing Assistantss?
Dental Assistantss earn more nationally. The median is $48,070 for Dental Assistantss versus $42,260 for Nursing Assistantss, a difference of $6K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Dental Assistants or Nursing Assistants?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Dental Assistants or Nursing Assistants?
Dental Assistants typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Nursing Assistants requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Dental Assistantss get paid the most?
Minnesota is the top-paying state for Dental Assistantss at $65,270/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Dental Assistants vs. Nursing Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Minnesota, Dental Assistantss earn $65,270 vs. $46,680 for Nursing Assistantss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.