Average Dentist Salary in District of Columbia
Dentists in District of Columbia earn an average of $201,477 per year across 1 metro area. This is +17.9% higher than the national average.
Average Salary
$201,477
per year
Hourly Rate
$96.86
per hour
vs National
+17.9%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$132,088
to $302,407
About Dentist Careers in District of Columbia
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They also provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health. As one of the highest-paid healthcare professions, dentists combine clinical expertise with entrepreneurial skills — most own or co-own their practices. The profession continues to evolve with advances in digital imaging, laser dentistry, and cosmetic procedures that command premium fees.
In District of Columbia, dentists earn an average of $201,477 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $132,088 for entry-level roles to $302,407 for the most experienced professionals — +17.9% above the national average. Pay is influenced most by specialty (oral surgeons and orthodontists earn significantly more than general dentists), practice ownership vs. associate or corporate dentistry, and the specific metro area within District of Columbia.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$201,477
Cost of Living Index
153
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$131,684
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for District of Columbia's cost of living (above average), a Dentist's salary of $201,477 has the purchasing power of $131,684 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in District of Columbia
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington, DC | $201,477 | $96.86/hr | $132,088 | $302,407 | 161 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
District of Columbia vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in District of Columbia
There are approximately 161 Dentists employed across 1 metro area in District of Columbia.
Key Industries: Federal Government, Legal Services, Professional Services
State Income Tax: 4% - 10.75%
Dentist Salary Range in District of Columbia
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$132,088
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$201,477
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$302,407
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in District of Columbia
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in District of Columbia with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More District of Columbia Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in District of Columbia?
The average Dentist salary in District of Columbia is $201,477 per year ($96.86/hour) based on 2026 data across 1 metro areas. This is 17.9% above the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in District of Columbia?
Washington, DC is the highest paying city for Dentists in District of Columbia, with a median salary of $201,477 per year.
What is the salary range for Dentists in District of Columbia?
Dentist salaries in District of Columbia range from $132,088 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $302,407 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $201,477 per year.
About This Data
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. State-level averages are calculated from metro area data within District of Columbia. Figures represent 2026 estimates and may not reflect all employers or self-employed workers. Cost of living adjustments use regional indices to provide purchasing power context.