Average Dentist Salary in Louisiana
Dentists in Louisiana earn an average of $150,351 per year across 1 metro area. This is +12.0% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$150,351
per year
Hourly Rate
$72.28
per hour
vs National
-12.0%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$99,989
to $221,180
About Dentist Careers in Louisiana
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 Louisiana, dentists earn an average of $150,351 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $99,989 for entry-level roles to $221,180 for the most experienced professionals — +12.0% below 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 Louisiana.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$150,351
Cost of Living Index
91
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$165,221
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Louisiana's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $150,351 has the purchasing power of $165,221 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in Louisiana
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans, LA | $150,351 | $72.28/hr | $99,989 | $221,180 | 117 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Louisiana vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Louisiana
There are approximately 117 Dentists employed across 1 metro area in Louisiana.
Key Industries: Oil & Gas, Petrochemicals, Shipping & Ports
State Income Tax: 1.85% - 4.25%
Dentist Salary Range in Louisiana
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$99,989
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$150,351
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$221,180
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Louisiana
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Louisiana with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More Louisiana Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Louisiana?
The average Dentist salary in Louisiana is $150,351 per year ($72.28/hour) based on 2026 data across 1 metro areas. This is 12.0% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Louisiana?
New Orleans, LA is the highest paying city for Dentists in Louisiana, with a median salary of $150,351 per year.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Louisiana?
Dentist salaries in Louisiana range from $99,989 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $221,180 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $150,351 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 Louisiana. 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.