Dental Assistant Salary in Nashville, Tennessee
The median dental assistant salary in Nashville, TN is $43,360 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 12.1% above the Tennessee state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Nashville: What to Expect (2026)
Nashville offers a median dental assistant salary of $43,360, which is $4,676 above the Tennessee state average of $38,684. Compared to the national median of $42,510, Nashville pays above average for this role.
Nashville's cost of living is 100% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for dental assistants in Nashville spans from $30,600 at the 10th percentile to $61,200 at the 90th percentile — a $30,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,620, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $59,160. As a major metro area with a population of 689,447, Nashville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Dental Assistant Salary in Nashville by Experience
In Nashville, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $31,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $59,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Nashville, TN
| Percentile | Nashville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,700 |
| Median (50th) | $43,360 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $61,200 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Nashville
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Nashville 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 Nashville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Nashville
Browse open dental assistant positions in Nashville, TN: