Dental Assistant Salary in Tennessee
The median dental assistant salary in Tennessee is $38,684 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $42,510.
Dental Assistant Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for dental assistant compensation. Dental Assistant salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $38,684 per year, dental assistants in Tennessee earn $3,826 less than the national median of $42,510.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $38,684 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $43,465 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: dental assistants at the 10th percentile earn $27,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $54,600 — a $27,300 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Tennessee for this role is Nashville, where the median reaches $43,360.
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dental assistants across the country.
Dental Assistant Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $28,210, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,780 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $38,684? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,300 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,850 |
| Median (50th) | $38,684 |
| 75th Percentile | $47,320 |
| 90th Percentile | $54,600 |
Dental Assistant Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for dental assistants in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Tennessee
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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