Dental Hygienist salary in Boston, MA
Median pay, Boston metro
$101,990/year
about $49.03 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $98,480 – $106,820
Half of dental hygienists in the Boston metro area earn more than $101,990 a year and half earn less. That's 4% higher than the national median of $98,100, and ranks #17 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $95,860 | $46.09 |
| 25th | $98,480 | $47.35 |
| Median (50th) | $101,990 | $49.03 |
| 75th | $106,820 | $51.36 |
| 90th (top earners) | $117,570 | $56.52 |
*Yearly pay divided by 2,080 hours (40 hours × 52 weeks), the full-time basis BLS uses.
Is your offer fair?
For a dental hygienist job in the Boston metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $98,480 ($47.35/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $98,480 to $106,820 ($47.35 to $51.36/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $106,820 ($51.36/hr). Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Many hygienists work part-time or across several offices, so compare hourly rates, not just yearly totals.
- Ask how long each appointment slot is. Short slots mean a faster, harder day for the same pay.
- Check whether you're paid for days the office closes or patients cancel.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, Boston metro. Occupation: Dental Hygienists (SOC 29-1292). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.