Dentistry is one of the most rewarding professions, both in terms of patient impact and financial return. But not all dental professionals earn the same—your income as a dentist can vary significantly depending on where you work. Location matters. Whether you’re considering which state to set up your practice or exploring relocation for better financial opportunities, understanding where dentists make the most money can give you a competitive edge.
At MoneyPlans, we specialize in helping professionals unlock their highest earning potential. For dental professionals, that means evaluating everything from geographic location to business ownership and specialization. Learn more about maximizing your income as a dentist by visiting MoneyPlans.
Highest-Paying States for Dentists in the U.S.
Several factors contribute to higher dentist salaries in certain states—cost of living, demand for dental services, and supply of dentists all play a role. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and independent salary surveys, here are the top states where dentists tend to earn the most.
Delaware
Average Salary: $240,000–$285,000+
Delaware consistently ranks at the top of the list for high-paying dentist salaries. A lower number of dentists per capita means less competition, and a strong demand for quality dental care allows practitioners to charge premium rates.
North Dakota
Average Salary: $230,000–$265,000+
Though rural, North Dakota offers high salaries for dentists willing to serve less populated areas. The need for dental professionals in underserved communities creates substantial opportunities, especially for general dentists and mobile dental practices.
Alaska
Average Salary: $225,000–$260,000+
Due to its remote geography and limited access to care, Alaska pays dentists significantly more than average. Dentists who serve native populations and rural towns often receive additional benefits, including relocation assistance and government incentives.
Maine
Average Salary: $215,000–$250,000+
Maine is another state with fewer dentists per capita, creating less saturation and higher patient loads. This dynamic leads to higher average earnings, particularly for general dentists and practice owners.
New Hampshire
Average Salary: $210,000–$245,000+
New Hampshire offers high earning potential, low unemployment rates, and a strong healthcare infrastructure. Many dentists here operate private practices, allowing them to retain more revenue and boost overall earnings.
Cities Where Dentists Make the Most
Beyond state-level averages, specific cities also offer high income potential for dental professionals. Here are a few metropolitan areas that stand out:
San Francisco, California
Average Salary: $240,000–$300,000+
While the cost of living is high, San Francisco dentists often charge premium prices, especially for cosmetic and specialized dental services. Practice owners and specialists here enjoy strong profit margins thanks to an affluent patient base.
Dallas, Texas
Average Salary: $230,000–$275,000+
Dallas has a booming population, strong economic growth, and relatively low competition in some suburban areas. Dentists in North Dallas suburbs report especially high annual revenues.
Washington, D.C.
Average Salary: $225,000–$270,000+
With many private insurance holders and high rates of elective procedures, dentists in the D.C. metro area are well-positioned for financial success. High-income patients demand top-tier dental care, including cosmetic and restorative services.
Miami, Florida
Average Salary: $220,000–$260,000+
Miami’s emphasis on cosmetic dentistry drives earnings for specialists such as prosthodontists, orthodontists, and implantologists. The city’s international community also leads to high dental tourism demand.
International Hotspots for High Dental Income
Dentists outside the U.S. can also earn competitive salaries, especially in countries with strong healthcare systems or private-sector demand.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Average Salary: $200,000–$300,000+
The UAE offers tax-free income and a wealthy client base, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Cosmetic dentistry is in high demand, and many U.S.-trained dentists are recruited to work in luxury clinics.
Australia
Average Salary: $180,000–$240,000+
Dentists in Australia benefit from high government reimbursement rates and strong private insurance coverage. The lifestyle, high earnings, and work-life balance attract professionals from around the world.
Canada
Average Salary: $160,000–$220,000+
Canada’s provinces vary, but dentists in Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia report the highest incomes. Specialists and practice owners see especially high returns in private practice models.
What Drives Higher Dentist Salaries?
Several key factors determine how much a dentist earns in a specific location:
1. Supply and Demand
Fewer dentists in a region means higher demand per provider. States like North Dakota and Maine, with low dentist-per-capita rates, see significantly higher incomes.
2. Specialization
Specialists (like oral surgeons or orthodontists) generally earn more than general dentists. In urban areas, where cosmetic procedures are common, income potential skyrockets for specialists.
3. Cost of Living and Fee Structures
In high-cost areas, dentists often charge more to keep up with expenses. However, the most profitable dentists are those who can maintain strong margins while optimizing overhead.
4. Private vs. Insurance-Based Practice
Private-pay or fee-for-service practices often result in higher earnings than insurance-dependent models. Locations with wealthier demographics tend to support these kinds of practices.
5. Practice Ownership
Owning a practice is one of the fastest paths to wealth in dentistry. Dentists who run efficient, multi-provider offices earn considerably more than associates working under others.
MoneyPlans helps dental professionals optimize practice management and personal finance to ensure they’re maximizing their earnings in any location. Learn more at MoneyPlans.
How to Choose the Best Place to Practice Dentistry
If you’re considering relocating to increase your income, consider these criteria:
- Population demographics: Look for areas with strong private insurance or high-income households.
- Competition: Lower dentist-to-population ratios generally equal higher patient volumes.
- Specialty demand: Some regions have greater need for specific services, such as oral surgery or pediatric care.
- Lifestyle factors: Income is important, but quality of life and family needs should also factor into your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What state pays dentists the most?
Delaware is currently one of the top-paying states for dentists, followed closely by North Dakota, Alaska, and Maine.
2. Do dentists in cities make more than those in rural areas?
It depends. Urban dentists may charge more, but rural dentists often have less competition and more patients per provider. Some rural areas also offer government incentives.
3. What’s the best state to open a dental practice?
States with a low dentist-to-population ratio, favorable business environments, and high private insurance usage—like Texas, Florida, and New Hampshire—are great choices.
4. Can dentists make good money abroad?
Yes. Countries like the UAE, Australia, and Canada offer high salaries, favorable tax laws, and great working conditions for licensed dentists.
5. Is owning a practice more profitable than being an associate?
In most cases, yes. Practice owners can earn two to five times more than associates, especially when they scale operations, hire other providers, and offer specialty services.
Final Thoughts
So, where do dentists make the most money? The answer lies in a mix of location, specialization, and practice model. Whether it’s Delaware, Dubai, or Dallas, the top earners position themselves in high-demand, low-competition markets and often combine clinical work with smart business strategies.
If you’re a dental professional ready to boost your income, expand your reach, or invest in your financial future, MoneyPlans is here to help. We offer tools and insights for maximizing income, managing dental practices, and planning long-term wealth. Visit MoneyPlans today to explore the smartest ways to grow your income—wherever you are.