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Washington Today
By the People, for the People
West Coast vs. East Coast: Dentist Salaries Compared
Oregon tops West Coast while Delaware leads East Coast in dentist pay
Published on Feb. 20, 2026
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According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists can earn an average annual salary of $209,670 in Oregon, the highest-paying state for dentists on the West Coast. In comparison, Delaware tops the East Coast with an average dentist salary of $228,740.
Why it matters
Dentist salaries can vary significantly by region, which can impact the ability of dental practices to attract and retain talent. Understanding these regional differences is important for dentists considering job opportunities, as well as for dental practices looking to remain competitive in their local markets.
The details
The data shows a range of average annual salaries for dentists across the West Coast and East Coast states. On the West Coast, California dentists earn an average of $184,350, while Washington dentists earn $203,780. On the East Coast, Connecticut dentists earn $214,070 on average, and dentists in Maine earn $224,080.
- The data is from the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report, published in 2026.
The players
Bureau of Labor Statistics
The federal agency that collects and publishes economic and employment data, including average salaries for various occupations.
The takeaway
The significant variation in dentist salaries across different regions highlights the importance for dentists to research job opportunities and compensation in their desired geographic markets. Dental practices must also stay informed on regional pay trends to remain competitive in attracting and retaining talent.
