Dental hygienist school cost in 2026
Dental hygienist school costs $4,370 to $54,980 per associate degree program in 2026, and most people pay about $22,692.
What moves the price
- Public community colleges cost less than private schools.
- In state students pay less than out of state students.
- Degree level matters, and bachelor's and master's programs cost more.
- Books, supplies, instruments and exams add extra cost.
- Lab and course fees can add over $1,000.
- Where you live. Prices in big cities usually run higher than in small towns.
What is included
The price usually covers tuition and school fees. Books and supplies can cost thousands more, and one college lists $5,300 for them. License and board exam fees are also extra, and the same college lists $2,500.
Average and range by degree
| Degree | Average in state cost | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Associate degree | $22,692 | $4,370 to $54,980 |
| Bachelor's degree | $36,382 | $17,930 to $99,610 |
| Master's degree | $30,421 | $23,370 to $80,170 |
Average prices in US dollars. Source: ADEA GoDental.
One college example (Pima, 2026 to 2027)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (general and differential) | $16,819.75 |
| Course and semester fees | $1,323 |
| Books and supplies | $5,300 |
| License and credential | $2,500 |
| Program total | $27,158 |
Average prices in US dollars. Source: ADEA GoDental.
Ways to pay less
- Choose an in state community college program.
- Ask about scholarships and grants from dental hygiene groups.
- Add up books, supplies and exam fees before picking a school so the total is clear.
What price guides say
We checked 3 price guides and read every number on their pages. They do not all measure the same thing, so the ranges on this page come from putting them side by side.
- ADEA GoDental: Dental Hygiene Program Costs
- Pima Community College: Dental Hygiene AAS Costs (2026 to 2027)
- NursingProcess.org: Best Dental Hygiene Schools 2026
Common questions
How much does this cost in 2026?
Dental hygienist school costs $4,370 to $54,980 per associate degree program in 2026, and most people pay about $22,692. Most people pay about $22,692 per associate degree program. The low end is $4,370 and the high end is $54,980.
What changes the price the most?
The biggest factors are: Public community colleges cost less than private schools; In state students pay less than out of state students; Degree level matters, and bachelor's and master's programs cost more.
How can I pay less?
Choose an in state community college program. Ask about scholarships and grants from dental hygiene groups. Add up books, supplies and exam fees before picking a school so the total is clear.
Where do these numbers come from?
From 3 named price guides: ADEA GoDental, Pima Community College, NursingProcess.org. Each one is linked on this page with the date we read it.
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