Average Dentist Salary in Virginia
Dentists in Virginia earn an average of $161,557 per year across 1 metro area. This is +5.5% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$161,557
per year
Hourly Rate
$77.67
per hour
vs National
-5.5%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$101,237
to $225,466
About Dentist Careers in Virginia
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 Virginia, dentists earn an average of $161,557 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $101,237 for entry-level roles to $225,466 for the most experienced professionals — +5.5% 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 Virginia.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$161,557
Cost of Living Index
103
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$156,851
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Virginia's cost of living (above average), a Dentist's salary of $161,557 has the purchasing power of $156,851 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in Virginia
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond, VA | $161,557 | $77.67/hr | $101,237 | $225,466 | 131 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Virginia vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Virginia
There are approximately 131 Dentists employed across 1 metro area in Virginia.
Key Industries: Federal Government, Defense & Military, Technology
State Income Tax: 2% - 5.75%
Dentist Salary Range in Virginia
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$101,237
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$161,557
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$225,466
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Virginia
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Virginia with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More Virginia Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Virginia?
The average Dentist salary in Virginia is $161,557 per year ($77.67/hour) based on 2026 data across 1 metro areas. This is 5.5% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Virginia?
Richmond, VA is the highest paying city for Dentists in Virginia, with a median salary of $161,557 per year.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Virginia?
Dentist salaries in Virginia range from $101,237 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $225,466 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $161,557 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 Virginia. 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.