Average Dentist Salary in TexasNo State Income Tax
Dentists in Texas earn an average of $163,106 per year across 5 metro areas. This is +4.6% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$163,106
per year
Hourly Rate
$78.42
per hour
vs National
-4.6%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$106,535
to $235,646
About Dentist Careers in Texas
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 Texas, dentists earn an average of $163,106 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $106,535 for entry-level roles to $235,646 for the most experienced professionals — +4.6% 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 Texas.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$163,106
Cost of Living Index
93
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$175,383
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Texas's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $163,106 has the purchasing power of $175,383 in an average-cost area. Additionally, Texas has no state income tax, further increasing take-home pay.
Dentist Salary by City in Texas
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin, TX | $180,000 | $86.54/hr | $117,075 | $265,319 | 109 |
| Dallas, TX | $170,741 | $82.09/hr | $111,414 | $250,531 | 159 |
| Houston, TX | $167,435 | $80.50/hr | $111,512 | $240,666 | 125 |
| San Antonio, TX | $157,974 | $75.95/hr | $105,607 | $226,918 | 138 |
| El Paso, TX | $139,378 | $67.01/hr | $87,067 | $194,794 | 105 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Texas vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Texas
There are approximately 636 Dentists employed across 5 metro areas in Texas.
Key Industries: Energy & Oil, Technology, Healthcare
State Income Tax: None (tax-free state)
Dentist Salary Range in Texas
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$106,535
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$163,106
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$235,646
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Texas
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Texas with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Texas?
The average Dentist salary in Texas is $163,106 per year ($78.42/hour) based on 2026 data across 5 metro areas. This is 4.6% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Texas?
Austin, TX is the highest paying city for Dentists in Texas, with a median salary of $180,000 per year. The lowest paying metro area is El Paso, TX at $139,378.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Texas?
Dentist salaries in Texas range from $106,535 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $235,646 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $163,106 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 Texas. 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.