How to Become a Healthcare Social Workers in Tennessee
Healthcare Social Workers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $61,910/year, which is 9% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a healthcare social workers takes home approximately $2,903/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a healthcare social workers can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a healthcare social workers in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Healthcare Social Workers positions in Tennessee typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many healthcare social workers 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 healthcare social workerss. 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 5,780 healthcare social workers. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Healthcare Social Workers salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $67K | $32.35/hr | 1,040 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $64K | $30.81/hr | 2,030 |
| Knoxville | $62K | $29.72/hr | 550 |
| Chattanooga | $61K | $29.47/hr | 610 |
| Clarksville | $60K | $28.63/hr | 80 |
| Morristown | $59K | $28.33/hr | 70 |
| Cleveland | $58K | $27.87/hr | 60 |
| Johnson City | $58K | $27.74/hr | 230 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $56K | $26.72/hr | 110 |
| Jackson | $55K | $26.55/hr | 280 |
Healthcare Social Workers salary range in Tennessee
Healthcare Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a healthcare social workers make in Tennessee?▼
The median healthcare social workers salary in Tennessee is $61,910 per year ($29.76/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $68,090. Salaries range from $41,040 to $86,370.
What are the requirements to become a healthcare social workers in Tennessee?▼
Healthcare Social Workers positions in Tennessee typically require Master's degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a healthcare social workers afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $61,910, a healthcare social workers in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,315/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for healthcare social workers in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for healthcare social workers in Tennessee are Memphis ($67,290), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($64,090), Knoxville ($61,810). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for healthcare social workers?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means healthcare social workers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.