Dental Hygienist salary in Chicago, IL
Median pay, Chicago metro
$100,260/year
about $48.20 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $86,330 – $102,340
Half of dental hygienists in the Chicago metro area earn more than $100,260 a year and half earn less. That's 2% higher than the national median of $98,100, and ranks #21 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $74,280 | $35.71 |
| 25th | $86,330 | $41.50 |
| Median (50th) | $100,260 | $48.20 |
| 75th | $102,340 | $49.20 |
| 90th (top earners) | $118,410 | $56.93 |
*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 Chicago metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $86,330 ($41.50/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $86,330 to $102,340 ($41.50 to $49.20/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $102,340 ($49.20/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, Chicago metro. Occupation: Dental Hygienists (SOC 29-1292). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.