In Philadelphia, PA, Dental Hygienists earn a median of $86,524 a year - about 7% above the U.S. median of $81,000. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #24.
What that pay is worth in Philadelphia
Local prices run 103 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $86,524 salary buys less than it looks - about $84,369 in national-average buying power.
Can Dental Hygienists afford a home in Philadelphia?
A typical Philadelphia home runs about $232,400 - 2.7 times the average Dental Hygienist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,323/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay - within the 30% comfort line.
The Dental Hygienist pay ladder in Philadelphia
Entry-level (10th percentile) Dental Hygienists earn about $51,304; the top 10% reach $111,177 - a $59,873 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
Compare Philadelphia with other cities
See the full Dental Hygienist salary by city ranking to weigh Philadelphia against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Dental Hygienists make in Philadelphia?
The average Dental Hygienist in Philadelphia, PA earns about $86,524 per year, 6.8% above the national average of $81,000.
What is the take-home pay for Dental Hygienists in Philadelphia after taxes?
After federal and PA taxes, this $86,524 salary is worth about $67,043 a year - roughly $5,586 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Dental Hygienists earn in Philadelphia?
The top 10% of Dental Hygienists in Philadelphia earn about $111,177 a year, versus about $51,304 for the bottom 10%.
Can Dental Hygienists afford a home in Philadelphia?
A typical Philadelphia home runs about $232,400 - roughly 2.7x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.