Average Dentist Salary in Massachusetts

Dentists in Massachusetts earn an average of $196,801 per year across 1 metro area. This is +15.1% higher than the national average.

Average Salary

$196,801

per year

Hourly Rate

$94.62

per hour

vs National

+15.1%

$170,910 national

Salary Range

$126,390

to $289,143

About Dentist Careers in Massachusetts

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 Massachusetts, dentists earn an average of $196,801 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $126,390 for entry-level roles to $289,143 for the most experienced professionals — +15.1% 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 Massachusetts.

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

Nominal Salary

$196,801

Cost of Living Index

135

100 = national average

Adjusted Salary

$145,779

purchasing power equivalent

After adjusting for Massachusetts's cost of living (above average), a Dentist's salary of $196,801 has the purchasing power of $145,779 in an average-cost area.

Dentist Salary by City in Massachusetts

CityMedian SalaryHourly RateEntry Level (P10)Senior (P90)Employment
Boston, MA$196,801$94.62/hr$126,390$289,143168

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).

Massachusetts vs National Average

Dentist Salary Comparison

Massachusetts Average$196,801
National Average$170,910
Difference+$25,891 (+15.1%)

Employment in Massachusetts

There are approximately 168 Dentists employed across 1 metro area in Massachusetts.

Key Industries: Technology, Biotechnology, Healthcare

State Income Tax: 5% - 9%

Dentist Salary Range in Massachusetts

Entry Level (10th Percentile)

$126,390

Starting salary for new Dentists

Median (50th Percentile)

$196,801

Mid-career Dentist salary

Senior (90th Percentile)

$289,143

Top earners in the field

Dentist Salary in Neighboring States

Compare Dentist salaries in Massachusetts with nearby states to find the best opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Dentist salary in Massachusetts?

The average Dentist salary in Massachusetts is $196,801 per year ($94.62/hour) based on 2026 data across 1 metro areas. This is 15.1% above the national average of $170,910.

What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Massachusetts?

Boston, MA is the highest paying city for Dentists in Massachusetts, with a median salary of $196,801 per year.

What is the salary range for Dentists in Massachusetts?

Dentist salaries in Massachusetts range from $126,390 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $289,143 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $196,801 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 Massachusetts. 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.