Dental Hygienist Salary in Tennessee
The median dental hygienist salary in Tennessee is $74,074 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $81,400.
Dental Hygienist Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for dental hygienist compensation. Dental Hygienist salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $74,074 per year, dental hygienists in Tennessee earn $7,326 less than the national median of $81,400.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $74,074 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,229 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: dental hygienists at the 10th percentile earn $52,962, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $98,462 — a $45,500 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 $83,028.
Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dental hygienists across the country.
Dental Hygienist Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level dental hygienist earns around $50,050, while experienced professionals earn up to $95,550 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $74,074 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,962 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,516 |
| Median (50th) | $74,074 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,180 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,462 |
Dental Hygienist Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for dental hygienists 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 Hygienist in Tennessee
Education
Most dental hygienist positions require a associate's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 229,600 other Dental Hygienists.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Dental Hygienist Roles in Tennessee?
Get matched with recruiters hiring dental hygienists in Tennessee at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: