Average Dentist Salary in North Carolina
Dentists in North Carolina earn an average of $167,932 per year across 2 metro areas. This is +1.7% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$167,932
per year
Hourly Rate
$80.74
per hour
vs National
-1.7%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$105,768
to $238,219
About Dentist Careers in North Carolina
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 North Carolina, dentists earn an average of $167,932 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $105,768 for entry-level roles to $238,219 for the most experienced professionals — +1.7% 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 North Carolina.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$167,932
Cost of Living Index
96
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$174,929
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for North Carolina's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $167,932 has the purchasing power of $174,929 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in North Carolina
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh, NC | $170,586 | $82.01/hr | $106,447 | $241,807 | 123 |
| Charlotte, NC | $165,277 | $79.46/hr | $105,088 | $234,631 | 123 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
North Carolina vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in North Carolina
There are approximately 246 Dentists employed across 2 metro areas in North Carolina.
Key Industries: Banking & Finance, Technology, Biotechnology
State Income Tax: 4.5% flat rate
Dentist Salary Range in North Carolina
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$105,768
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$167,932
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$238,219
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in North Carolina
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in North Carolina with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More North Carolina Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in North Carolina?
The average Dentist salary in North Carolina is $167,932 per year ($80.74/hour) based on 2026 data across 2 metro areas. This is 1.7% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in North Carolina?
Raleigh, NC is the highest paying city for Dentists in North Carolina, with a median salary of $170,586 per year. The lowest paying metro area is Charlotte, NC at $165,277.
What is the salary range for Dentists in North Carolina?
Dentist salaries in North Carolina range from $105,768 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $238,219 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $167,932 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 North Carolina. 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.