Physician Assistant Salary in Tennessee
The median physician assistant salary in Tennessee is $114,669 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. Physician Assistant salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $114,669 per year, physician assistants in Tennessee earn $11,341 less than the national median of $126,010.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $114,669 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $128,842 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $76,440, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $158,340 — a $81,900 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 $128,530.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $80,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $147,420 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,460 |
| Median (50th) | $114,669 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,410 |
| 90th Percentile | $158,340 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for physician 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 Physician Assistant in Tennessee
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,751 over your career trajectory.
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