Dental Assistant Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $38,406 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $33,959 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Dental Assistants. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $40,427 per year, Tennessee's Dental Assistant salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $28,150–$33,988, while experienced Dental Assistants can command $47,123–$51,410.
Looking ahead, the Dental Assistant profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 3.8% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Dental Assistant salary in Tennessee?The average Dental Assistant salary in Tennessee is $40,427 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $45,940.
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What city in Tennessee pays Dental Assistants the most?Major metro areas typically pay Dental Assistants the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Tennessee a good state for Dental Assistants?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Dental Assistant employment.
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How does Tennessee Dental Assistant salary compare to the US average?At $40,427/year, Tennessee Dental Assistant salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $45,940/year.