Dentist Salary in Chicago: Your Complete Guide to Pay & What Affects It (2024 Data)
Have you ever caught yourself Googling, “How much do dentists make in Chicago?” late at night? Maybe you’re thinking about going into dentistry, moving to the Windy City, or just wondering if your own paycheck is where it should be. You’re definitely not the only one! Each year, lots of people—from high schoolers and dental students to pros—wonder what dentists in Chicago really bring home.
So what’s the deal with dentist salaries in Chicago? Is it all fancy cars and apartments on the lake, or is there more to the story? Let’s dig in and find out.
In This Article
- What Dentists Really Make in Chicago
- The Average Dentist Salary in Chicago, IL (Right Now)
- What Impacts Dentist Salaries in Chicago
- Dentist Salary by Specialty in Chicago
- The Cost of Living in Chicago vs. Dentist Income
- Job Outlook for Dentists in Chicago
- How to Boost What You Earn as a Dentist in Chicago
- FAQs
- Bottom Line: Is Dentistry in Chicago Worth It?
What Dentists Really Make in Chicago
Picture this: you want to turn your love of helping people into a good-paying job, or maybe Chicago is calling your name for your next move. For most of us, salary isn’t just a number—it’s about feeling safe, having a choice in life, and buying the house or taking that trip you’ve dreamed about.
But before you count your chickens, let’s be honest—dentistry is tough. There’s years of school, big student loans, and hard tests. After all that, what can you truly expect to make as a dentist in Chicago?
Let’s check out the numbers and what real dentists have to say.
The Average Dentist Salary in Chicago, IL (Right Now)
Here’s the straight-up answer:
- Most general dentists in Chicago pull in between $190,000 and $240,000 per year.
- New dentists just starting out often see $120,000 to $160,000, but this can go up fast with experience.
- Specialists, like orthodontists and oral surgeons, can make a lot more (details on that coming up).
How does Chicago compare to the rest of Illinois and the U.S.?
- Chicago vs. Illinois average: Dentists in Chicago make more than in most small towns nearby because there’s more demand and it costs a bit more to live here.
- Chicago vs. U.S. average: The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the average dentist salary across the country is about $180,000 to $220,000. Chicago is at the higher end because it’s a big city, but keep in mind, things cost more here, too.
Salary Breakdown Table
| Category/Specialty | Entry-Level (0-2 yrs) | Mid-Career (5-10 yrs) | Senior (10+ yrs) | Chicago Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Dentist | $120k – $160k | $170k – $220k | $230k – $300k+ | $190k – $240k |
| Orthodontist | $180k – $230k | $250k – $350k | $360k – $500k+ | $300k – $400k |
| Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | $200k – $280k | $300k – $450k | $460k – $600k+ | $380k – $550k |
| Pediatric Dentist | $150k – $200k | $220k – $280k | $290k – $350k+ | $240k – $300k |
| Endodontist | $170k – $220k | $240k – $300k | $310k – $400k+ | $270k – $350k |
| Periodontist | $160k – $210k | $230k – $290k | $300k – $380k+ | $260k – $330k |
What Impacts Dentist Salaries in Chicago
Before you get too excited, know that dentist pay can go up or down depending on a bunch of things. It’s not just about how long you’ve been working.
1. Experience Level
Just like most jobs, dentists get paid more after they have a few years under their belt.
- New dentists—straight out of school—start at the lower end, usually as an associate. You’ll probably be looking at $120,000 to $160,000.
- 5-10 years in: Now you have a loyal group of patients and some business know-how, so you move up to $170,000 to $220,000.
- 10+ years: Older, well-known, or practice-owning dentists can make $300,000 or even more.
2. Dental Specialty
Not every area of dentistry pays the same in Chicago or anywhere else.
- General dentists: Make a solid living, but the top bucks go to the specialists.
- Orthodontists and oral surgeons: These need more training, but pay a lot more. Starting pay is usually over $200,000 and can reach $500,000+ with time.
- Other specialists: Like periodontists, endodontists, and pediatric dentists, get more than general dentists, but not as much as surgeons.
3. Type of Dental Practice
- Own your own place: You take all the risk but can make the most, kind of like running your own coffee shop instead of a big chain.
- Work for someone else (private or big dental company): Steadier paycheck, less business stress, but not always as big as owners.
- Hospital, school, or public health jobs: These have regular hours and benefits, but usually pay less.
4. Where in Chicago You Work
Location matters! Dentists downtown or in rich neighborhoods can charge higher prices (but there’s often more competition), while those in suburbs may see more patients for less overhead.
5. How Many Patients You See & Who Pays
Simply: More patients and more cash-paying or insured clients = more income. If you have lots of patients on public insurance, you might get paid less per visit.
6. School Costs & Debt
Big school loans don’t change your “salary” number, but they really affect your wallet. Schools like the University of Illinois (UIC) and Midwestern University are great, but they’re not cheap. There are good jobs in Chicago, though, to help pay off those loans.
Dentist Salary by Specialty in Chicago
Let’s zoom in on highest-paying areas. If you’re just planning your path, this table can help you choose a road that fits your goals (and your bank account).
| Specialty | Average Annual Salary (All Experience) |
|---|---|
| Orthodontist | $300,000 – $400,000 |
| Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | $380,000 – $550,000 |
| Pediatric Dentist | $240,000 – $300,000 |
| Endodontist | $270,000 – $350,000 |
| Periodontist | $260,000 – $330,000 |
So how do you get there?
Specialties mean even more school and training, and sometimes tough residencies. It’s not always an easy ride, but the pay can make it worth it if you like a certain kind of dental work.
The Cost of Living in Chicago vs. Dentist Income
Those six-figure paychecks look great, but what can you actually afford in Chicago?
Here’s the real-life scoop:
- Housing: Your biggest monthly bill. Rent and home prices are about 15-20% above U.S. average, especially in places like Lakeview or the Loop.
- Getting around: Transit is decent, but if you drive, you’ll pay a lot for parking and car insurance.
- Taxes: Illinois income tax and local property tax can take a good chunk out of your check.
- Basic stuff: Groceries, utilities, and eating out cost a bit more here than in other cities.
A typical example:
A dentist making $220,000, still paying off school loans, and renting downtown will be pretty comfortable, but it’s still more expensive living here than in a small town.
Take-Home Pay
Plenty of dentists say that while the amount they make sounds big, after rent, taxes, loan payments, and insurance, they still need to budget, especially if they want to buy a house or save a lot for retirement.
Job Outlook for Dentists in Chicago
Here’s a bright spot for you:
Being a dentist in Chicago looks good, with jobs not going away anytime soon. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says dentist jobs will grow about 6% from 2022-2032—a little above some healthcare jobs.
Why pick Chicago?
- Older population: More older people means more teeth problems to fix!
- Big, busy city: Lots of people means lots of patients.
- Diverse areas: There’s a place for every kind of dental specialty, from simple cleanings to advanced cosmetic work.
- Good schools and tech: Big dental schools and top labs make Chicago a great place to learn and work.
If you’re starting out or wanting a change, Chicago has a bunch of solid options.
How to Boost What You Earn as a Dentist in Chicago
Feeling motivated? You should be! There are ways to bump up your paycheck—no matter your level.
Pick a Specialty or Keep Learning
Becoming a specialist or getting extra training (say, in implants with help from a digital dental lab) can really help you make more.
Learn About Running a Practice
If you own your office, learn about business basics. Being good at marketing or managing money can help a lot. There are classes and mentors for this.
Meet People & Get Referrals
People talk! Build good relationships with other doctors or community groups to get more patients through the door.
Be Smart with Job Contracts
Don’t be shy about asking for what you deserve! Know about things like base pay, bonuses, days off, and what others earn in Chicago for good negotiating.
Look into Owning a Practice
Being your own boss can mean more money—but also more work and stress. It’s your call, but owners often make more than associates over time.
Using new tech and labs (like a reliable china dental lab) can make your life easier and keep your costs down.
FAQs
Is Chicago a good city for dentists?
Yes, for sure! Chicago has a ton of different people, strong economy, and lots of medical resources, which makes it great for dentists with any focus.
Which dental jobs pay the most in Chicago?
Oral surgeons are usually at the top, often over $500,000 a year after some experience. Orthodontists and endodontists are also high on the list.
How big are dental school loans for dentists in Chicago?
It’s pretty standard to end up with $250,000 or more in loans from schools like UIC or Midwestern. But salaries in Chicago are higher, so it’s doable to pay it off with careful planning.
What benefits do dentists in Chicago usually get?
Associates and employees often get health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, malpractice coverage, and money for more classes. Owners pick their own benefits but have less security. If you want to pick the best employer or contract, check out this dental practical guide.
Bottom Line: Is Dentistry in Chicago Worth It?
Here’s what to remember:
- Most general dentists in Chicago make $190,000–$240,000 a year.
- Specialties, experience, and owning your practice push your income even higher.
- Living in Chicago costs more, but so do the salaries.
- What you take home depends on your job type, neighborhood, patient mix, and if you know a little about business.
- Dentist jobs aren’t going anywhere—Chicago’s growing, needs healthcare, and likes new ideas.
If you care about helping people and want to make a solid living, Chicago is a great spot to be a dentist. The numbers you see only tell part of the story. Behind each paycheck is your hard work, education, and the good feeling of putting a smile on someone’s face.
Thinking about taking the next step?
The best thing you can do is keep learning. If you want to change careers or grow in your current job, ask questions, use resources like the American Dental Association, and build friendships in your field.
Here’s to your bright future—full of pride in your work, fair pay, and, on sunny days, a walk along Lake Michigan.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jane Doe, DDS
(update with a real local dentist for complete accuracy if you can)
Helpful resources:
- Dental Practical Guide – Get Answers Fast
- Digital Dental Lab – Tools for Dental Success
- China Dental Lab – Trusted Lab Partner
Disclaimer: All numbers and info are based on best sources as of 2024. Everyone’s situation is different. For personal money or job advice, talk to a real expert.
Remember:
In dentistry, just like in life, your direction is shaped as much by your attitude and passion as by your training. Stay curious, keep learning, and chase your Chicago dream.
