Dentist vs Genetic Counselor: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Dentist
Diagnose and treat dental issues including cavities, gum disease, and orthodontics.
Genetic Counselor
Assess hereditary disease risks and counsel patients on genetic testing options.
Dentist earns more on average — the national median is $71,372/year (72%) higher than a Genetic Counselor. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Dentist vs Genetic Counselor — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Dentist | Genetic Counselor | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $244,977 | $141,022 | Dentist +$103,955 |
| New York, NY | $206,409 | $120,948 | Dentist +$85,461 |
| Seattle, WA | $244,156 | $145,082 | Dentist +$99,074 |
| Austin, TX | $189,096 | $110,879 | Dentist +$78,217 |
| Chicago, IL | $178,457 | $108,510 | Dentist +$69,947 |
| Boston, MA | $219,529 | $130,390 | Dentist +$89,139 |
| London, UK | £131,365 | £77,497 | Dentist +$53,868 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$225,532 | CA$135,338 | Dentist +$90,194 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Dentist or Genetic Counselor earn more?+
A Dentist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Dentist is $170,950/year, compared to $99,578/year for a Genetic Counselor — a difference of $71,372 (72%).
Which has better career growth — Dentist or Genetic Counselor?+
Dentist roles are growing at 4% YoY while Genetic Counselor demand is growing at 18% YoY. Genetic Counselor has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Dentist to Genetic Counselor?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Dentist or Genetic Counselor?+
Genetic Counselor has a lower AI automation risk (12% vs 12%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.