Dental Assistant Dental Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA

Dental Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Sep 11, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Dental Assistant make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Dental Assistant is $49,096 per year in San Diego, CA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $49,096 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $4,091 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $944 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $24 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In San Diego, CA, Dental Assistants enjoy a competitive salary that reflects their important role in the dental industry. On average, a Dental Assistant in San Diego earns about $49,096 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and the specific dental practice. Many Dental Assistants find that with a few years of experience, their salary can increase significantly.

The salary range for Dental Assistants in San Diego can be quite broad. Entry-level positions may start around $38,500, while more experienced professionals can earn upwards of $60,000. Some of the factors that influence salary include:

  • Years of experience
  • Certifications and additional training
  • Type of dental practice (e.g., private practice, public health)
  • Location within the city
Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA
View all Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Assistant near San Diego, CA?

Dental Assistants in Solana Beach, CA, enjoy one of the highest average salaries near San Diego. This city offers competitive pay, making it an attractive option for job seekers. Nearby, Ramona, CA, also provides a strong average salary, with opportunities for career growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Dental Assistant jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Solana Beach, CA with the highest at $55,059 and National City, CA with the lowest at $48,264.

  1. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $55,059
    In Solana Beach, a Dental Assistant can expect a welcoming work environment. Many local practices offer competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth. With a strong community focus, it's a great place to build a career.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  2. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $54,355
    Ramona provides a serene setting for Dental Assistants. The area is known for its friendly and supportive dental offices. Working here means being part of a close-knit community that values skilled professionals.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Ramona, CA


  3. Lakeside, CA
    Average Salary: $51,145
    Lakeside offers a vibrant atmosphere for Dental Assistants. The city's diverse population means a variety of experiences in dental care. Many local clinics are known for their modern facilities and excellent patient care.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Lakeside, CA


  4. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $50,559
    In Del Mar, Dental Assistants enjoy a picturesque work environment. The city's upscale practices often provide advanced training and career advancement opportunities. Working here means being part of a community that values health and wellness.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Del Mar, CA


  5. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $50,266
    Alpine is a charming place for Dental Assistants to work. The small-town feel offers a close-knit community and a supportive work environment. Many local practices emphasize teamwork and professional development.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Alpine, CA


  6. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $49,667
    Coronado provides a beautiful backdrop for a career in dental assisting. The city's coastal location offers a relaxed atmosphere. Many dental offices here are known for their patient-centered approach and modern amenities.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Coronado, CA


  7. San Ysidro, CA
    Average Salary: $49,509
    San Ysidro offers a dynamic work environment for Dental Assistants. The area is diverse and growing, providing many opportunities for professional growth. Local practices often emphasize community service and patient care.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in San Ysidro, CA


  8. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $49,246
    La Jolla is a vibrant city for Dental Assistants. The area is known for its beautiful scenery and high-quality dental practices. Working here means being part of a community that values excellence and innovation in dental care.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  9. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $48,622
    In Poway, Dental Assistants find a supportive and friendly work environment. The city is known for its strong community spirit. Many local practices offer excellent training and career advancement opportunities.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Poway, CA


  10. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $48,264
    National City provides a diverse and dynamic environment for Dental Assistants. The city's multicultural population offers a wide range of experiences. Many local dental offices emphasize teamwork and professional development.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in National City, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Dental Assistant in San Diego, CA?

Gen4 Dental offers the highest average salary for Dental Assistants in San Diego, CA, at $59,600. Dr. Zak Dental Care follows closely, with an average salary of $56,760. Bold Smiles Dental also provides a competitive salary, averaging $56,000. These companies value their dental assistants and offer attractive compensation packages. Torrey Del Mar Dentistry and Espire Dental also provide good salaries, with averages around $55,200 and $52,829, respectively. These opportunities can be excellent for those seeking a rewarding career in dental assisting.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Dental Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Gen4 Dental with the highest at $59,600 and Dental Express with the lowest at $50,800.

  1. Gen4 Dental
    Average Salary: $59,600
    Gen4 Dental offers competitive salaries for Dental Assistants. They provide comprehensive training and career growth opportunities. Gen4 Dental operates multiple locations in San Diego, CA, including locations in La Jolla, Rancho Bernardo, and Carlsbad.


  2. Dr. Zak Dental Care
    Average Salary: $56,760
    Dr. Zak Dental Care provides a supportive environment for Dental Assistants. They focus on patient care and offer a family-friendly atmosphere. This practice operates in San Diego, CA, with a focus on providing high-quality dental services.


  3. Bold Smiles Dental
    Average Salary: $56,000
    Bold Smiles Dental values their Dental Assistants and offers a rewarding work environment. They emphasize teamwork and patient satisfaction. This company operates in San Diego, CA, with a commitment to excellent dental care.


  4. Torrey Del Mar Dentistry
    Average Salary: $55,200
    Torrey Del Mar Dentistry offers a competitive salary for Dental Assistants. They focus on creating a positive work environment and providing quality dental care. This practice is located in San Diego, CA, with a focus on patient comfort.


  5. Espire Dental
    Average Salary: $52,829
    Espire Dental offers a supportive environment for Dental Assistants. They provide ongoing training and career development opportunities. This company operates in San Diego, CA, with a focus on patient-centered care.


  6. LIGHTHOUSE DENTAL
    Average Salary: $52,667
    LIGHTHOUSE DENTAL offers a competitive salary for Dental Assistants. They focus on teamwork and patient care. This practice is located in San Diego, CA, with a commitment to providing excellent dental services.


  7. Imagen Dental Partners
    Average Salary: $52,609
    Imagen Dental Partners offers a supportive environment for Dental Assistants. They provide ongoing training and development opportunities. This company operates in San Diego, CA, with a focus on patient satisfaction.


  8. Little Smile Co. Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
    Average Salary: $52,333
    Little Smile Co. Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offers a rewarding work environment for Dental Assistants. They focus on providing quality care to children. This practice is located in San Diego, CA, with a commitment to pediatric dental care.


  9. smile plus dentistry
    Average Salary: $52,000
    Smile Plus Dentistry offers a supportive environment for Dental Assistants. They focus on patient care and provide ongoing training. This practice is located in San Diego, CA, with a commitment to excellent dental services.


  10. Dental Express
    Average Salary: $50,800
    Dental Express offers a competitive salary for Dental Assistants. They focus on providing quality dental care and patient satisfaction. This company operates in San Diego, CA, with a commitment to excellent dental services.

Currently 7,126 Dental Assistant job openings, nationwide.

View Dental Assistant Jobs in San Diego, CA

How's the job market for a Dental Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Dental Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Dental Assistant today.
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