Private Dentists - Earn double in Regional Australia - high grossing jobs in high tech, high-spec, independent private clinics
Why Dentists are Earning Double in Regional Australia and Why it Might be Time to Make the Move.
We speak with a lot of dentists across Australia, and there’s a growing theme we keep hearing, dentists working in regional and rural areas are not just enjoying a better work-life balance, but they’re often earning up to double what their city-based counterparts take home.
It sounds too good to be true, right? But it isn’t. In fact, it’s been the case for a while now, the only thing that’s changed is more people are finally noticing.
So, why the bigger pay packet outside the city?
There are a few key reasons, and they all make perfect sense once you scratch the surface.
First up, less competition. In major cities like Sydney or Brisbane, dentists are everywhere. Patients have options, and practices have to work harder to fill chairs. But in regional towns, there simply aren’t enough dentists to go around. That means full books, high patient demand, and very grateful communities.
Second, better commission. Practices in regional areas know they need to attract and retain good clinicians, so they’re offering higher percentages — often 40–45%, compared to the standard 35–40% you’d see in the city.
Third, the work is more varied. You’ll get hands-on with a wider scope of treatment. Think more surgical work, endo, ortho, and implants, the sort of dentistry that adds real variety to your week and gives your earnings a healthy boost. There is a real shortage of specialists away from the city, so you can really develop, grow, and do the dentistry you want to.
And finally, your money goes further. Rents are lower, commutes are shorter, and let’s face it, there’s a certain joy in parking right outside the practice without paying $38 for the privilege.
Where are the opportunities?
We’re seeing particularly strong demand and strong earnings in South Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales.
In SA, think beyond Adelaide. Port Augusta, Port Lincoln, and Victor Harbour are crying out for good dentists, and you’ll find incredibly loyal patient bases. It’s also a chance to enjoy big-sky country, local wine, and no traffic lights for miles.
In QLD, there’s huge opportunity both coastal and inland. Townsville and Mackay are buzzing, while further west, towns like Emerald or Roma offer excellent incomes, generous relocation support, and a lifestyle that’s a bit more “boots and beers” than beaches and brunch.
NSW is much the same, the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers, Evans Head, Coffs, and Taree, are always popular with great opportunities, and places like Tamworth, Orange, Griffith, and Dubbo are where real opportunity lie. And further down the coast to Eden, a truly beautiful spot with fantastic people. There’s something very grounding about living in these communities, great local schools, plenty of space and where you will really feel part of the community.
But is it all about the money?
Not at all. Most dentists we place in regional areas say the same thing, yes, the income is fantastic, but it’s the quality of life that keeps them there.
Whether it’s weekend trips to national parks, surf beaches without crowds, or evenings spent stargazing instead of sitting in traffic, the lifestyle shift is real. And if you’re a few years into your career and starting to think about buying a home and settling down, regional dentistry makes a lot of sense, very quickly.
If you're curious about what's out there, we’d love to chat. We work with practices throughout Australia.
We can’t promise you'll end up riding a horse to work or joining the local bowls club (although it has been known), but we can say with confidence: this could be the best move you ever make, personally and professionally.
For further details please contact Darran Walenta, Australia Dentist Specialist at Zest Dental.
Contact: Darran Walenta
Email: darran.walenta@zestdental.com
Telephone: UK: +44 114 238 1729 | AU: +61 730 534 271
