Dental Hygienist in Burlington, VT

The Salary Picture: Where Burlington Stands

As a local who has watched the dental healthcare market in Vermont evolve, I can tell you that Burlington offers a solid, stable salary for dental hygienists, particularly when you consider the cost of living. The median salary for a dental hygienist in the Burlington metro area is $87,530/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $42.08/hour. This figure is notably identical to the national average, which is a good sign—it means the local market pays competitively on a national scale without the dramatic premiums or deficits you see in major coastal cities. In a metro population of just 44,649, there are approximately 89 active jobs in the field, which indicates a tight, competitive market where experienced hygienists are highly valued. The 10-year job growth projection is 9%, which is steady and reflects Vermont's aging population and the consistent need for preventive dental care.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience translates to pay in our local market, here's a breakdown of salary expectations. These are estimates based on local job postings and industry data for the Burlington area.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Burlington)	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$72,000 - $80,000	$34.62 - $38.46
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$85,000 - $95,000	$40.87 - $45.67
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$92,000 - $105,000+	$44.23 - $50.48+
Expert/Specialized (15+ years)	$100,000+	$48.08+

When you compare Burlington to other Vermont cities, it holds a strong position. Burlington is the economic and healthcare hub of the state, so salaries here tend to be the highest. For comparison, a hygienist in the Montpelier area might see a median salary closer to $83,000, while in Rutland, it could be around $80,000. The trade-off is that Burlington also has the highest cost of living in the state, though it's still very reasonable on a national scale. The real draw here is the concentration of employers—from large hospital systems to private practices in bustling neighborhoods—which means more opportunities for specialization and career advancement.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the numbers. An annual salary of $87,530 sounds great, but what does it mean for your monthly budget in Burlington? After federal taxes, state taxes (Vermont has a progressive income tax), FICA, and local deductions, a single filer can expect to take home approximately $65,000 - $68,000 annually, or about $5,400 - $5,700 per month.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Burlington is $1,441/month. This means your rent would consume roughly 25-27% of your take-home pay, which is considered very affordable and well below the 30% threshold that financial advisors often warn against. Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a single dental hygienist earning $87,530:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	~$5,550	After taxes & deductions
Rent (1BR avg)	$1,441	Can be lower in some neighborhoods
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$180 - $250	Higher in winter due to heating
Groceries	$500 - $600	Competitive with national averages
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	Highly variable; public transit is an option
Healthcare (Insurance Premiums)	$150 - $250	Employer-sponsored plans common
Retirement Savings (10%)	$730	401(k) or IRA contributions
Discretionary/Entertainment	$1,000 - $1,500	Dining, skiing, Lake Champlain activities
Total Expenses	~$4,401 - $5,071	Leaves a buffer for savings or debt

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. With a median home price in Burlington around $425,000, a $87,530 salary provides enough borrowing power for a conventional mortgage. However, the local housing market is competitive. As a single buyer, you'd likely need a significant down payment (10-20%) to make the monthly payments manageable and avoid being house-poor. A more realistic first step for many is to buy a condo or a smaller home in a nearby town like South Burlington or Winooski, where prices can be slightly lower. Given your stable income and the relatively low cost of living, building equity here is a very attainable goal.

Where the Jobs Are: Burlington's Major Employers

The job market for dental hygienists in Burlington is robust, centered around a mix of large healthcare systems, private group practices, and community clinics. Hiring is often steady, with turnover primarily due to retirement or relocation, as the 9% growth projection suggests. Here are the key players you should know:

1. The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMC): As the state's largest employer and a major teaching hospital, UVMC has a dental department that often seeks hygienists for both general and specialized clinics. They offer competitive benefits, including tuition reimbursement, which is a huge perk for furthering your education. Hiring tends to be cyclical, aligning with the academic year.

2. Community Health Centers of Burlington (CHCB): This is a critical employer for those passionate about public health. CHCB operates several dental clinics serving low-income and underserved populations. Positions here are mission-driven and often come with excellent benefits and loan forgiveness program eligibility. They have a consistent need for hygienists due to high patient volumes.

3. Large Group Practices (e.g., South Avenue Dental, Bright Smiles): These multi-dentist offices in the South End and Williston Road areas are always looking for skilled hygienists to keep their schedules full. They often have modern facilities and a focus on cosmetic and family dentistry. The pace can be faster, but the compensation is competitive, and they may offer production-based bonuses.

4. Private Practices (Burlington's Old North End & South End): The charming, walkable neighborhoods of the Old North End and South End are dotted with independent practices. These offices often have a loyal patient base and a more personal atmosphere. Getting a job here is about networking—attending local dental association events or simply dropping off a resume can work wonders. They value hygienists who can build rapport with patients.

5. Smugglers' Notch Family Dentistry (and similar in Essex/Jeffersonville): While not in downtown Burlington, practices in the surrounding Chittenden County suburbs are part of the same job market. They serve the growing populations of Essex, Colchester, and Jeffersonville. Commuting is straightforward, and these offices can offer a slightly different pace than the downtown core.

6. Burlington Family Dental & Orthodontics: A large, well-established practice with multiple locations. They are known for investing in the latest technology, which can be a draw for hygienists who want to work with digital scanners and advanced hygiene tools. They frequently post openings on local job boards.

Getting Licensed in VT

Vermont's licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The primary governing body is the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), which oversees all allied health professions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program (a minimum of a two-year associate's degree is standard).
2. National Board Exam: Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
3. Clinical Exam: Pass a state or regional clinical exam (like the ADEX or WREB).
4. Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check through the Vermont OPR.
5. Application: Complete the online application through the Vermont OPR portal, including all transcripts and exam scores.

Costs (Approximate):

• Vermont Application Fee: $150
• License Renewal (biennial): $150
• NBDHE Exam: ~$400
• Clinical Exam: ~$400 - $600
• Background Check: ~$50

Timeline:

• Education: 2 years (full-time).
• Post-Graduation: Allow 2-3 months to study for and pass your board and clinical exams.
• Licensure Processing: Once your application is complete, the Vermont OPR typically processes it within 4-6 weeks. It’s wise to apply for your license as soon as you have your exam scores, as the market is competitive and you don’t want to miss an opportunity while waiting for paperwork.

Insider Tip: Vermont is part of the Dental Compact, which allows for licensure reciprocity with other member states. If you're already licensed elsewhere, the process may be simpler, but you'll still need to apply for a Vermont license and pay the associated fees. Always check the OPR website for the most current forms and instructions.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Choosing where to live in Burlington depends heavily on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. As a local, I can tell you that the "best" neighborhood is the one that fits your daily rhythm. Here’s a breakdown:

1. The South End: This is the quintessential Burlington neighborhood for young professionals. It's walkable, with a mix of classic Victorians and modern apartments. You're close to the main medical corridor (UVM Medical Center, private clinics) and fantastic amenities like the Shelburne Road shopping district and the famous South End Art Hop. Commute to most jobs is under 10 minutes by car or bike. Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800 for a 1BR.

2. The Old North End (ONE): More affordable and historically diverse, the ONE has a vibrant, community-focused feel. It's home to the iconic Burlington City Arts and a growing number of cafes and breweries. While some clinics are located here, you might have a slightly longer commute (10-15 minutes) to the major hospitals on the hill. It's great for those who want a more urban, eclectic vibe. Rent Estimate: $1,200 - $1,500 for a 1BR.

3. South Burlington: Technically a separate city, but part of the same metro area. It's more suburban, with newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. The commute is easy via Shelburne Road or I-189. This area is ideal if you prioritize space, newer amenities, and proximity to the airport and major retail. Many dental offices are located here as well. Rent Estimate: $1,450 - $1,700 for a 1BR.

4. Winooski: Just a 5-minute drive north of Burlington, Winooski has transformed into a dense, walkable city with its own identity. The "Circle" area is packed with restaurants and apartments. Rent can be slightly lower than Burlington proper, and the commute is a breeze. It's a great option for those who want a tight-knit community feel without sacrificing access to Burlington's job market. Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,600 for a 1BR.

5. The Hill Section (University District): This area is dominated by UVM and is mostly populated by students and university staff. While it's beautiful and incredibly central, it's noisy and parking is a nightmare. It's not ideal for a working professional unless you work directly on campus and enjoy the student energy. Rents can be high for what you get. Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $2,000+ for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Burlington offers multiple pathways for a dental hygienist to grow beyond the standard clinical role. The 9% job growth isn't just about more openings; it's about specialization and advancement.

Specialty Premiums: Hygienists with certifications in areas like periodontics, orthodontics, or public health can command higher salaries. In Burlington, a hygienist working in a periodontal specialty office might earn $95,000 - $110,000 due to the advanced skills required. Similarly, those who become certified to provide local anesthesia (Vermont allows this with proper training) are more valuable to employers and can see a salary bump of 5-10%.

Advancement Paths:

• Clinical Management: Move into an Office Manager or Clinical Director role, overseeing other hygienists and patient flow. This often comes with a salary increase but may involve less direct patient care.
• Education: Become a Clinical Instructor at a local dental hygiene program (like the one at Vermont Technical College). This path offers a different pace and the reward of mentoring new hygienists.
• Public Health & Advocacy: With Burlington's strong focus on community health, experienced hygienists can move into roles with the Vermont Department of Health or non-profits, focusing on policy, education, and outreach programs.
• Sales/Industry: Some hygienists transition into sales for dental product companies or equipment manufacturers, leveraging their clinical knowledge to advise practices. This can be a lucrative path with a different set of challenges.

10-Year Outlook: The demand for dental hygienists in Vermont is projected to remain strong. An aging population and a growing awareness of the oral-systemic health connection (the link between gum disease and conditions like diabetes and heart disease) will sustain the need for preventive care. Burlington's status as a healthcare hub ensures that new technologies and treatment methods will be adopted quickly, meaning continuous learning will be a key part of long-term career success here.

The Verdict: Is Burlington Right for You?

Burlington is a fantastic, if specific, choice for a dental hygienist. It offers a high quality of life, a competitive salary, and a stable job market, but it comes with the realities of a small city in a northern climate.

Pros	Cons
Competitive Salary: Median of $87,530 matches the national average.	Highly Competitive Housing Market: Finding an apartment can be tough; buying a home requires a solid down payment.
Affordable Cost of Living: Rent at $1,441 is manageable on the local salary.	Seasonal Economy & Weather: Long, snowy winters can be challenging, and some businesses slow down seasonally.
Stable, Growing Job Market: 89 jobs and 9% growth provide security.	Limited Diversity of Employers: The market is dominated by a few large systems; moving between practices can be limited.
Unbeatable Lifestyle: Lake Champlain, mountains, a vibrant arts/food scene, and a progressive community.	Traffic & Parking: While not a major city, rush hour on I-89 and finding parking downtown can be frustrating.
Work-Life Balance: The culture here prioritizes time outdoors and community, not just work.	"Small-Town" Feel: If you crave the anonymity and constant action of a major metropolis, Burlington may feel too small.

Final Recommendation: Burlington is an ideal choice for a dental hygienist who values work-life balance over maximum salary potential. It's perfect for those who love outdoor activities (skiing, hiking, kayaking), appreciate a tight-knit professional community, and are looking for a stable, rewarding career in a beautiful setting. If you're a hygienist who is self-motivated, enjoys building long-term patient relationships, and wants to be part of a community—not just a workforce—Burlington will feel like home.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for a new graduate?
A: It's moderately competitive for entry-level positions. While there are 89 jobs in the metro, many employers prefer 1-2 years of experience. To stand out, gain as much clinical experience during your externships as possible, consider a temporary position, and network at local dental association meetings. The 9% growth means new positions are constantly opening up.

Q: What is the typical work schedule for a dental hygienist in Burlington?
A: Most full-time positions are Monday-Friday, 8-5 or 9-6, with occasional late evenings or Saturdays depending on the practice. Private practices may offer more flexibility, while hospital-based roles might have more traditional hours. Part-time and flexible schedules are also available, which is common in this field.

Q: Is it necessary to have a car in Burlington?
A: It's highly recommended. While the downtown core is walkable and has a decent bus system (GBTA), many dental offices are in suburban areas (South Burlington, Williston) with limited public transit. A car also provides essential access to the incredible outdoor recreation opportunities in the surrounding mountains and lake.

Q: How does Vermont's licensing compare to other states?
A: Vermont's licensing process is straightforward and is part of the Dental Compact, which eases reciprocity for hygienists moving from other member states. The key is to start the application process early and ensure all your documentation (transcripts, exam scores) is in order. The Vermont OPR website is your best resource for the most current requirements.

Q: What's the best way to find housing in Burlington?
A: The rental market moves fast. Start your search on sites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Facebook Marketplace. Local property management companies like Redstone and Farrell Properties have