Average Dentist Salary in Pennsylvania
Dentists in Pennsylvania earn an average of $165,566 per year across 2 metro areas. This is +3.1% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$165,566
per year
Hourly Rate
$79.60
per hour
vs National
-3.1%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$110,096
to $246,447
About Dentist Careers in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania, dentists earn an average of $165,566 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $110,096 for entry-level roles to $246,447 for the most experienced professionals — +3.1% 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 Pennsylvania.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$165,566
Cost of Living Index
99
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$167,238
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Pennsylvania's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $165,566 has the purchasing power of $167,238 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in Pennsylvania
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | $170,168 | $81.81/hr | $112,051 | $250,506 | 114 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | $160,964 | $77.39/hr | $108,141 | $242,388 | 119 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Pennsylvania vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Pennsylvania
There are approximately 233 Dentists employed across 2 metro areas in Pennsylvania.
Key Industries: Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
State Income Tax: 3.07% flat rate
Dentist Salary Range in Pennsylvania
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$110,096
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$165,566
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$246,447
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Pennsylvania
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Pennsylvania with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More Pennsylvania Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Pennsylvania?
The average Dentist salary in Pennsylvania is $165,566 per year ($79.60/hour) based on 2026 data across 2 metro areas. This is 3.1% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Pennsylvania?
Philadelphia, PA is the highest paying city for Dentists in Pennsylvania, with a median salary of $170,168 per year. The lowest paying metro area is Pittsburgh, PA at $160,964.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Pennsylvania?
Dentist salaries in Pennsylvania range from $110,096 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $246,447 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $165,566 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 Pennsylvania. 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.