In Raleigh, NC, Dental Hygienists earn a median of $95,340 a year - about 18% above the U.S. median of $81,000. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #12.
What that pay is worth in Raleigh
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $95,340 salary is about break-even with the national average ($97,130 adjusted).
Can Dental Hygienists afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - 4.0 times the average Dental Hygienist salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,468/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay - within the 30% comfort line.
The Dental Hygienist pay ladder in Raleigh
Entry-level (10th percentile) Dental Hygienists earn about $49,484; the top 10% reach $127,439 - a $77,955 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
Compare Raleigh with other cities
See the full Dental Hygienist salary by city ranking to weigh Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
The average Dental Hygienist in Raleigh, NC earns about $95,340 per year, 17.7% above the national average of $81,000.
What is the take-home pay for Dental Hygienists in Raleigh after taxes?
After federal and NC taxes, this $95,340 salary is worth about $72,606 a year - roughly $6,050 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Dental Hygienists earn in Raleigh?
The top 10% of Dental Hygienists in Raleigh earn about $127,439 a year, versus about $49,484 for the bottom 10%.
Can Dental Hygienists afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - roughly 4.0x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.