How to Become a Animal Caretakers in Tennessee
Animal Caretakers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $29,800/year, which is 11% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a animal caretakers takes home approximately $753/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a animal caretakers can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a animal caretakers in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Animal Caretakers positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many animal caretakers positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for animal caretakerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 7,000 animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Memphis.
Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $31K | $14.94/hr | 2,540 |
| Memphis | $30K | $14.49/hr | 1,090 |
| Knoxville | $30K | $14.42/hr | 960 |
| Clarksville | $30K | $14.33/hr | 250 |
| Jackson | $30K | $14.22/hr | 110 |
| Chattanooga | $29K | $13.81/hr | 630 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $28K | $13.68/hr | 190 |
| Morristown | $28K | $13.57/hr | 110 |
| Cleveland | $28K | $13.56/hr | 120 |
| Johnson City | $28K | $13.25/hr | 190 |
Animal Caretakers salary range in Tennessee
Animal Caretakers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a animal caretakers make in Tennessee?▼
The median animal caretakers salary in Tennessee is $29,800 per year ($14.33/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $33,470. Salaries range from $23,500 to $38,370.
What are the requirements to become a animal caretakers in Tennessee?▼
Animal Caretakers positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a animal caretakers afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $29,800, a animal caretakers in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,165/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 65.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for animal caretakers in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for animal caretakers in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($31,080), Memphis ($30,140), Knoxville ($30,000). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for animal caretakers?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means animal caretakers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.