Dentist Salary in Ames, IA
How much does a dentist make in Ames? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Ames's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how dentist salaries break down across different pay periods in Ames.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $73,954 | $127,667 | $182,938 |
| Monthly | $6,163 | $10,639 | $15,245 |
| Biweekly | $2,844 | $4,910 | $7,036 |
| Weekly | $1,422 | $2,455 | $3,518 |
| Hourly | $36 | $61 | $88 |
Ames vs National Average
How Ames's dentist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Ames
About Dentist
Overview
Diagnose and treat teeth and gum diseases and perform dental procedures.
Education
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +14% over the next decade
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Dentist Salary in Ames, IA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a dentist in Ames, IA is $127,667 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 91. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Ames's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level dentist professionals in Ames can expect to earn around $73,954 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level dentists earning approximately $182,938 per year. This represents a 147% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Ames's cost of living index of 91 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Ames are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $171,090, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a dentist's salary in Ames typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $820 per month, housing represents about 7.7% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Dentists are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 14% over the next decade. In Ames, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.