Dental Hygienist salary in Philadelphia, PA
Median pay, Philadelphia metro
$100,820/year
about $48.47 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $96,560 – $103,480
Half of dental hygienists in the Philadelphia metro area earn more than $100,820 a year and half earn less. That's 3% higher than the national median of $98,100, and ranks #19 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $83,590 | $40.19 |
| 25th | $96,560 | $46.42 |
| Median (50th) | $100,820 | $48.47 |
| 75th | $103,480 | $49.75 |
| 90th (top earners) | $103,920 | $49.96 |
*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 Philadelphia metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $96,560 ($46.42/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $96,560 to $103,480 ($46.42 to $49.75/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $103,480 ($49.75/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, Philadelphia metro. Occupation: Dental Hygienists (SOC 29-1292). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.