Dental Assistant Salary in Santa Cruz, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Dental Assistant make in Santa Cruz, CA?

The average salary for a Dental Assistant is $52,169 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

A Dental Assistant in Santa Cruz, CA, earns a competitive salary. On average, they make about $52,169 per year. This figure can vary based on experience and specific skills. Many Dental Assistants start with a salary around $39,000 and can reach up to $60,000 with more experience.

Factors that influence salary include the type of dental practice, additional certifications, and the number of years in the field. Dental Assistants who work in specialized practices or have extra training can expect higher pay. This career offers good earning potential and opportunities for growth.

Dental Assistant jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Assistant near Santa Cruz, CA?

Job seekers looking for Dental Assistant roles near Santa Cruz, CA, can find attractive opportunities in nearby cities. Palo Alto offers the highest average salary, making it a prime location for those in the field. Other cities like Saratoga and Los Gatos also provide competitive pay, offering a range of options for professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Dental Assistant jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Palo Alto, CA with the highest at $63,827 and Capitola, CA with the lowest at $52,125.
  1. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $63,827
    In Palo Alto, dental professionals enjoy a vibrant community. Many clinics here focus on advanced dental care. Companies like Palo Alto Dental Group offer great opportunities.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  2. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $58,843
    Saratoga provides a welcoming environment for dental assistants. The area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Local practices like Saratoga Family Dental are always looking for skilled assistants.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Saratoga, CA


  3. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $56,645
    Los Gatos offers a mix of urban and suburban settings. Dental assistants here benefit from a supportive community. Practices like Los Gatos Dental Care provide excellent career growth.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  4. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $55,267
    Pacific Grove is a coastal town with a relaxed vibe. Dental assistants here enjoy a slower pace of life. Local practices like Pacific Grove Dental Group are known for their friendly staff.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Pacific Grove, CA


  5. Campbell, CA
    Average Salary: $54,762
    Campbell is a growing city with many opportunities. Dental assistants here work in modern facilities. Companies like Campbell Dental Associates offer competitive salaries.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Campbell, CA


  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $54,165
    San Jose is a bustling city with a diverse job market. Dental assistants here can find work in various settings. Companies like San Jose Dental Center provide extensive training.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in San Jose, CA


  7. Aptos, CA
    Average Salary: $53,333
    Aptos offers a peaceful environment with beautiful surroundings. Dental assistants here enjoy a close-knit community. Local practices like Aptos Family Dental are always hiring.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Aptos, CA


  8. Felton, CA
    Average Salary: $52,750
    Felton is a small town with a friendly community. Dental assistants here work in a relaxed setting. Local practices like Felton Dental Care offer a supportive work environment.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Felton, CA


  9. Seaside, CA
    Average Salary: $52,327
    Seaside is a coastal town known for its scenic beauty. Dental assistants here enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. Local practices like Seaside Dental Group offer great opportunities.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Seaside, CA


  10. Capitola, CA
    Average Salary: $52,125
    Capitola offers a charming atmosphere with a strong sense of community. Dental assistants here benefit from a supportive environment. Local practices like Capitola Dental Care provide excellent career growth.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Capitola, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Dental Assistant in Santa Cruz, CA?

Dental Assistants in Santa Cruz, CA, can find excellent opportunities with top-paying companies. The top-paying company is Dentes Community Dental Care, offering an average salary of $54,542. Signature Dental Partners and Western Dental Services also provide competitive salaries, with averages of $44,000 and $40,617, respectively. These companies offer rewarding careers with good compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Dental Assistant jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Dientes Community Dental Care with the highest at $54,542 and Western Dental Services with the lowest at $40,617.
  1. Dientes Community Dental Care
    Average Salary: $54,542
    Dientes Community Dental Care offers rewarding Dental Assistant positions. They provide comprehensive dental care in Santa Cruz, CA. Their team works in a friendly environment, focusing on patient care and comfort. They have multiple locations in the area, ensuring ample opportunities for growth and development.


  2. Signature Dental Partners
    Average Salary: $44,000
    Signature Dental Partners is a well-established company in Santa Cruz, CA. They offer competitive salaries for Dental Assistants. Their practice emphasizes teamwork and patient satisfaction. They operate several dental offices in the region, providing a variety of experiences and learning opportunities.


  3. Western Dental Services
    Average Salary: $40,617
    Western Dental Services provides Dental Assistant roles with a focus on quality care. They have multiple locations in Santa Cruz, CA. Their team-oriented approach ensures a supportive work environment. They offer training and development programs to help Dental Assistants advance their careers.

Currently 9,620 Dental Assistant job openings, nationwide.

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.
Position
Overview
Dental Assistant
9,620 Job Openings