Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $127,000 | $149,000 | $172,000 | $71.63/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $157,000 | $181,000 | $211,000 | $87.02/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $196,000 | $235,000 | $284,000 | $112.98/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Raleigh
A mid-level dentist earning $181,000 in Raleigh has the same buying power as $177,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 102).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Dentist Salaries in Raleigh
The median dentist salary in Raleigh, NC is $181,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 102 (national average = 100), Raleigh offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level dentists in Raleigh can expect to earn between $127,000 and $172,000 (about $71.63/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $284,000 ($284K annually, or about $136.54/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Raleigh.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dentist Salary in Raleigh
What is the average Dentist salary in Raleigh?+
The average Dentist salary in Raleigh is $181,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $149,000 and senior-level pay reaches $235,000.
How much does an entry-level dentist make in Raleigh?+
Entry-level dentists in Raleigh earn between $127,000 and $172,000, with a median of $149,000 per year (about $71.63/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Dentist in Raleigh?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Dentist in Raleigh earns roughly $71.63/hour at entry-level, $87.02/hour at mid-level, and $112.98/hour at senior-level.
Is the Dentist salary in Raleigh higher than the US average?+
Yes — Dentist salaries in Raleigh are about 0% higher than the US national median of $181,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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