Dental Hygienist in Round Rock, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Round Rock Stands

As a career analyst who's watched the Central Texas job market for years, I can tell you Round Rock offers a compelling salary proposition for dental hygienists, especially when you factor in the local cost of living. The median salary for a Dental Hygienist in Round Rock is $86,899/year, with an hourly rate of $41.78/hour. This puts you slightly below the national average of $87,530/year, but that gap is more than closed by the region's affordability. The metro area (which includes Austin and its suburbs) supports 263 jobs for this role, with a robust 10-year job growth projection of 9% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Texas Workforce Commission data.

Here’s how experience typically translates into earnings in this market:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Annual Salary Range (Round Rock)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$72,000 - $79,000	General prophylaxis, patient education, basic charting.
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$82,000 - $89,000	Scaling and root planing, periodontal therapy, client management.
Senior	8-15 years	$90,000 - $98,000	Complex cases, mentoring, specialty support (ortho, perio).
Expert	15+ years	$99,000+	Practice management, advanced diagnostics, teaching roles.

When compared to other major Texas cities, Round Rock sits in a sweet spot. You'll earn less than in Dallas or Houston (where median salaries can hit $91,000+), but significantly more than in San Antonio (~$82,500). The key differentiator is the cost: you can maintain a higher standard of living in Round Rock on a similar or lower salary. For instance, a dental hygienist in Austin proper would face a median salary of about $87,200 but with rent averaging 25% higher than in Round Rock. The 9% job growth here is also stronger than the national average for the role, driven by the region's rapid population influx and the expansion of suburban healthcare networks. This growth is fueled by families moving to the area for its schools and community feel, all while having easy access to the higher-paid opportunities in downtown Austin.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get down to the numbers that matter. For a single filer earning the median salary of $86,899/year in Texas (which has no state income tax), your take-home pay after federal taxes and FICA is approximately $66,500 per year, or about $5,542 per month. This is a critical advantage over states with high income taxes.

Your largest fixed expense will be rent. The average 1-bedroom rent in Round Rock is $1,635/month. This leaves you with a substantial $3,907 per month for all other expenses, savings, and discretionary spending. Let's break down a realistic monthly budget:

• Take-Home Pay: $5,542
• Rent (1BR): -$1,635
• Utilities (electric, water, internet): -$200
• Groceries: -$400
• Car Payment & Insurance (Round Rock is car-dependent): -$550
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): -$300
• Student Loans (avg. for a DH degree): -$350
• Retirement Savings (10%): -$550
• Discretionary/Entertainment: -$500
• Remaining Buffer: $1,057

This $1,057 buffer is healthy. It allows for savings, travel, or unexpected expenses. The Cost of Living Index of 97.6 (where the U.S. average is 100) confirms that your dollar goes slightly further here than the national average, which is a significant relief compared to the Austin core.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, with a solid plan. The median home price in Round Rock is roughly $425,000. With your strong income-to-rent ratio, you can save a substantial down payment. In 2-3 years of disciplined saving (using that $1,057+ monthly buffer), you could accumulate $30,000 - $40,000, putting you in a strong position for an FHA loan or a conventional loan with a lower down payment. Your stable career and income are highly attractive to lenders. The key is to avoid lifestyle inflation as you save.

Where the Jobs Are: Round Rock's Major Employers

The job market here is dominated by a mix of large dental groups, private practices, and hospital-affiliated clinics. Hiring is consistent, but competition for the best positions is active. Here are the key players:

1. Heartland Dental (Multiple Locations): This is one of the largest dental support organizations in the country, with several practices in Round Rock (e.g., on I-35 and near the Round Rock Premium Outlets). They offer structured career paths, consistent benefits, and opportunities for growth into management. They frequently hire due to expansion and turnover. Insider tip: They often host open interviews; check their career page quarterly.

2. OnPoint Dental (Round Rock): A well-regarded local group known for investing in its staff with continuing education stipends. They focus on a modern, patient-centric approach and are a top destination for hygienists seeking a collaborative, upscale practice environment. Hiring is selective but steady.

3. Baylor Scott & White Health (Round Rock Campus): While known for their medical centers, their dental clinics (often serving the broader community and special needs populations) offer a different pace. It’s a great option if you prefer a hospital setting with a focus on public health. Benefits are excellent, and turnover is lower.

4. Private Practices (e.g., ClearChoice Dental, Dr. Steven M. Sacks DDS): Dozens of independent practices line the main corridors (I-35, SH-130, Round Rock Ave). These can offer more flexibility, closer relationships with the dentist, and sometimes higher commission-based pay. Use local directories and websites like Zocdoc to find active postings.

5. Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) - Round Rock: While primarily medical, ARC has integrated dental services in some locations. This is an emerging trend. They value cross-functional collaboration and offer a robust benefits package.

Hiring Trends: Demand is strong due to the 9% growth rate. Practices are competing for talent, especially those with experience in digital charting (like Dentrix or Eaglesoft), and specialized skills in perio therapy or orthodontic assisting. The post-2021 period saw a surge in hiring as practices recovered from the pandemic, and that momentum continues. Network at local dental hygiene association meetings (Texas Dental Hygienists' Association) to hear about unposted opportunities.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas licensing is a clear, regulated process managed by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE). If you're already licensed in another state, you may be eligible for reciprocity, but for new graduates or those moving from non-reciprocal states, here's the path:

Step-by-Step:

1. Education: Graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited dental hygiene program.
2. National Board: Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
3. Regional Clinical Exam: Pass a regional clinical exam (Western Regional Examining Board - WREB is common for Texas).
4. Texas Jurisprudence Exam: Pass the Texas-specific laws and rules exam (open-book, online).
5. Background Check & Application: Submit your application, fees, and fingerprints to the TSBDE.

Timeline & Costs:

• Total Timeline: From exam completion to receiving your license can take 2-4 months.
• Total Estimated Cost: $500 - $800 (including application fees, exam fees, and background check). This is a one-time investment to practice in Texas.
• Insider Tip: Start the application process before you move. The TSBDE website is your primary resource. For reciprocity, contact the TSBDE directly to confirm your eligibility, as requirements change.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Choosing where to live in Round Rock depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For...
Downtown Round Rock	Walkable, historic charm, close to Main St. practices. Easy access to Austin via I-35.	$1,450 - $1,750	Professionals who want a short, walkable commute and a vibrant, established community.
Teravista	Modern, master-planned community with pools, trails, and golf. Family-friendly.	$1,600 - $1,850	Hygienists with families or those who value amenities and a quiet, suburban feel.
Forest Creek / Round Rock West	Established, wooded neighborhoods near the golf club. Mature trees and larger lots.	$1,550 - $1,800	Those seeking a peaceful, established area with quick access to the hospital and major employers.
Sunset Valley / East Round Rock	Rapidly growing, newer construction, more affordable. Closer to the SH-130 corridor.	$1,350 - $1,600	Newcomers and budget-conscious individuals who don’t mind a slightly longer commute to some offices.
Brushy Creek / Avery Ranch	Technically in the adjacent Austin ISD but part of the Round Rock metro. Excellent schools, newer amenities.	$1,650 - $1,950	Those prioritizing top-rated schools for a future family, with easy access to both Round Rock and Austin jobs.

Commute Note: Most dental offices are clustered along I-35 (east side) or near the Round Rock Medical Center (west side). A commute by car is typically 5-15 minutes, unless you live in the far reaches of the metro. Traffic on I-35 can be heavy during rush hour, so consider proximity to your workplace.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career as a dental hygienist in Round Rock offers more than just a steady paycheck; it’s a platform for growth. The 10-year job growth of 9% ensures you won’t be stuck. To maximize your earnings and satisfaction, consider these paths:

• Specialty Premiums: Hygienists with additional certification in areas like periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing) or orthodontic assisting can command salaries at the higher end of the range ($90,000 - $98,000). Specializing in pediatric dentistry is also in high demand due to the area's growing families.
• Advancement Paths: Move from clinical hygiene into roles like Clinical Director, Dental Hygiene Educator (for community colleges or dental assisting schools), or Corporate Trainer for a DSO like Heartland Dental. These roles can push salaries into the $95,000 - $110,000 range.
• 10-Year Outlook: The role is evolving. With AI and digital dentistry advancing, hygienists who master new technologies (intraoral scanners, digital radiography) will be essential. The demand for preventive care in an aging population (both in Round Rock and nearby retirement communities) will keep jobs plentiful. Your career trajectory is solid, with opportunities for both clinical excellence and administrative leadership.

The Verdict: Is Round Rock Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong Affordability: Salary goes further than in Austin or major metros.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable car; public transit is limited.
Robust Job Market: 263 jobs and 9% growth offer stability and choice.	Limited "Big City" Culture: If you crave museums, major concerts, and diverse nightlife, you'll be commuting to Austin.
Family & Community Focus: Safe, excellent schools, and family-friendly events.	Rapid Growth: Can lead to traffic congestion and strain on infrastructure.
Proximity to Austin: Easy access to the city's job market, concerts, and airport.	Rental Market Pressure: While better than Austin, rents are rising with population growth.
Low Cost of Living Index (97.6): Your daily expenses are manageable.	Competitive Housing Market: Buying a home requires a strategic savings plan.

Final Recommendation: Round Rock is an excellent choice for dental hygienists who prioritize financial stability, a family-friendly environment, and a manageable cost of living. It's ideal for those who are at the mid-career stage looking to buy a home or start a family, or for new graduates who want to launch their career in a supportive, growing community without the crushing debt of a big city. If you're a single professional in your 20s who lives for nightlife and urban density, you might find it too quiet. But for the vast majority of hygienists seeking a balanced, rewarding career and life, Round Rock is a top-tier destination.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for new graduates in Round Rock?
A: While there are 263 jobs, the market is moderately competitive for entry-level roles. New graduates should highlight any externship experience in Texas, obtain basic life support (BLS) certification, and be prepared to start in general practice. Networking and a proactive approach are key.

Q: Will my salary increase if I commute to Austin?
A: Likely, yes. Austin positions can offer salaries $2,000 - $8,000 higher than the Round Rock median. However, you must weigh this against increased commuting costs (gas, tolls, vehicle wear) and a potentially higher cost of living if you move closer to Austin. For many, the net financial benefit of staying in Round Rock is greater.

Q: Are there opportunities for part-time or flexible scheduling?
A: Yes, especially in private practices and DSOs. Many offices offer 4-day workweeks or part-time schedules to attract talent. This flexibility is a significant selling point in a market where work-life balance is valued.

Q: How important is Spanish language skill in this market?
A: Increasingly important. With a growing Hispanic population in Central Texas, hygienists with conversational or clinical Spanish proficiency are highly sought after and may have an edge in hiring and with patient satisfaction. Consider taking a medical Spanish course if you don't already speak it.

Q: What is the best way to find a job here?
A: A multi-pronged approach works best: 1) Use job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn, filtering for "Round Rock." 2) Check the websites of the major employers listed above directly. 3) Attend local dental hygiene association meetings for networking. 4) Consider working with a recruiter who specializes in dental placements in the Austin metro.