Dentist vs Quantity Surveyor
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Dentist earns 71% more than Quantity Surveyor
Median R 72 000/month vs R 42 000/month — a R 30 000/month difference
Dentist
R 864 000/year
227% above SA workforce median
Quantity Surveyor
R 504 000/year
91% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Dentist | Quantity Surveyor |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 43 000 | R 22 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 72 000 | R 42 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 140 000 | R 75 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Dentist
Demand is stable, though access to dental care in South Africa remains skewed toward higher-income groups. The NHI's phased implementation may create new public-sector opportunities for dentists over the next decade.
Quantity Surveyor
Government infrastructure investment keeps QS demand robust. Housing backlogs and private sector commercial development continue to create work. Skilled PrQSs are a scarce resource.
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Dentist or a Quantity Surveyor in South Africa?▾
A Dentist earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Dentist is R 72 000/month, compared to R 42 000/month for a Quantity Surveyor — a difference of R 30 000/month (71% higher).
What is the Dentist salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Dentist salary in South Africa is R 72 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 35 000–R 55 000/month, mid-level pays R 55 000–R 100 000/month, and senior roles pay R 100 000–R 200 000/month.
What is the Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa is R 42 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 28 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Dentist or Quantity Surveyor?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.