EMT/Paramedic Salary in Tennessee
The median emt/paramedic salary in Tennessee is $34,648 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $38,930.
EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. EMT/Paramedic salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $34,648 per year, emt/paramedics in Tennessee earn $4,282 less than the national median of $38,930.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $34,648 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,930 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $23,140, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $55,180 — a $32,040 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 $38,930.
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.
EMT/Paramedic Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $24,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $51,620 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,140 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,590 |
| Median (50th) | $34,648 |
| 75th Percentile | $44,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $55,180 |
EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in Tennessee
Education
Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, emt/paramedic 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
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