Average Dentist Salary in Michigan
Dentists in Michigan earn an average of $161,135 per year across 1 metro area. This is +5.7% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$161,135
per year
Hourly Rate
$77.47
per hour
vs National
-5.7%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$102,156
to $229,185
About Dentist Careers in Michigan
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 Michigan, dentists earn an average of $161,135 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $102,156 for entry-level roles to $229,185 for the most experienced professionals — +5.7% 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 Michigan.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$161,135
Cost of Living Index
91
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$177,071
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Michigan's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $161,135 has the purchasing power of $177,071 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in Michigan
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit, MI | $161,135 | $77.47/hr | $102,156 | $229,185 | 135 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Michigan vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Michigan
There are approximately 135 Dentists employed across 1 metro area in Michigan.
Key Industries: Automotive, Manufacturing, Healthcare
State Income Tax: 4.25% flat rate
Dentist Salary Range in Michigan
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$102,156
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$161,135
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$229,185
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Michigan
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Michigan with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More Michigan Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Michigan?
The average Dentist salary in Michigan is $161,135 per year ($77.47/hour) based on 2026 data across 1 metro areas. This is 5.7% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Michigan?
Detroit, MI is the highest paying city for Dentists in Michigan, with a median salary of $161,135 per year.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Michigan?
Dentist salaries in Michigan range from $102,156 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $229,185 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $161,135 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 Michigan. 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.