In May, Becker’s used data from WalletHub that examined the best and worst states to start a business. Becker’s also analyzed different aspects of starting a dental practice in these states, such as cost of living and competition.
Salary information comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which updated wage and salary data for several dental specialties March 31 to reflect 2021 information.
The best states to open a business and their mean annual wage for general dentists:
1. Texas: $150,060
2. Georgia: $165,160
3. California: $165,950
4. Florida: $164,370
5. Idaho: $124,750
6. Utah: $134,570
7. Colorado: $139,460
8. North Dakota: $161,080
9. North Carolina: $189,980
10. Massachusetts: $175,140
The worst states to open a business and their mean annual wage for general dentists:
1. New Jersey: N/A
2. Connecticut: $197,910
3. Rhode Island: $206,600
4. West Virginia: $139,200
5. Wyoming: $148,730
6. Alaska: $168,390
7. Missouri: $167,240
8. Pennsylvania: $159,450
9. Delaware: $233,860
10. Virginia: $162,750