Aguadilla vs Ponce: Dental Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare dental assistant salaries between Aguadilla, PR and Ponce, PR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aguadilla, PR | Ponce, PR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $36,130▲ | $31,210 |
| Hourly Rate | $17.37▲ | $15.01 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $22,722 | $23,598▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $27,899▲ | $27,796 |
| 75th Percentile | $47,187 | $47,578▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $57,253▲ | $56,768 |
| Total Employed | 180 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Aguadilla, PR offers better overall compensation for dental assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Ponce.
The salary gap between Aguadilla and Ponce is $4,920 (15.76%). Aguadilla's median is -27.13% compared to the US national median of $49,579.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aguadilla spans $34,531,Ponce spans $33,170. Aguadilla has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aguadilla if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($36,130/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($57,253)
- ✓You prefer the Puerto Rico area and lifestyle
Choose Ponce if…
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Puerto Rico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dental assistant salaries in Aguadilla grew 95.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 61.9% growth in Ponce over the same period.
Aguadilla, PR
$17,880 (2019) → $35,030 (2025)
Ponce, PR
$18,690 (2019) → $30,260 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aguadilla, PR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dental assistants more: Aguadilla or Ponce?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aguadilla and Ponce?
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What do entry-level dental assistants earn in Aguadilla vs Ponce?
Written by Maria Gonzalez, CDA, RDH
Career Analyst
Maria Gonzalez has over 10 years of experience in dental assisting. She specializes in pediatric dentistry. She works in a private dental practice.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.14% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Gonzalez, CDA, RDH, a licensed dental assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov