Medical Assistant Salary in Tennessee
The median medical assistant salary in Tennessee is $34,826 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $38,270.
Medical Assistant Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for medical assistant compensation. Medical Assistant salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $34,826 per year, medical assistants in Tennessee earn $3,444 less than the national median of $38,270.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $34,826 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $39,130 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: medical assistants at the 10th percentile earn $26,754, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $47,320 — a $20,566 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 $39,035.
Nationally, medical assistant employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Medical Assistant Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level medical assistant earns around $27,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $43,680 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 | $26,754 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,212 |
| Median (50th) | $34,826 |
| 75th Percentile | $40,768 |
| 90th Percentile | $47,320 |
Medical Assistant Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for medical 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 Medical Assistant in Tennessee
Education
Most medical assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, medical assistant employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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