Dental Assistant Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median dental assistant salary in Knoxville, TN is $38,259 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median dental assistant salary of $38,259, which is $425 below the Tennessee state average of $38,684. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $38,259 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $43,476 in an average-cost city. This makes Knoxville an attractive option for dental assistants seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for dental assistants in Knoxville spans from $27,000 at the 10th percentile to $54,000 at the 90th percentile — a $27,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,900, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $52,200. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dental Assistant Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $27,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,500 |
| Median (50th) | $38,259 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $54,000 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Knoxville
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open dental assistant positions in Knoxville, TN: