How to Become a Medical Assistants in Tennessee
Medical Assistants in Tennessee earn a median salary of $38,150/year, which is 14% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $1,312/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a medical assistants in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants 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 medical assistantss. 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 19,940 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Chattanooga.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $42K | $19.95/hr | 6,450 |
| Chattanooga | $39K | $18.52/hr | 2,250 |
| Memphis | $38K | $18.44/hr | 3,640 |
| Knoxville | $38K | $18.41/hr | 2,790 |
| Jackson | $37K | $17.84/hr | 470 |
| Johnson City | $37K | $17.74/hr | 800 |
| Cleveland | $37K | $17.73/hr | 290 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $37K | $17.65/hr | 650 |
| Clarksville | $37K | $17.59/hr | 590 |
| Morristown | $36K | $17.12/hr | 270 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Tennessee
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Tennessee?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Tennessee is $38,150 per year ($18.34/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $32,180 to $48,080.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Tennessee?▼
Medical Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $38,150, a medical assistants in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,724/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 51.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($41,500), Chattanooga ($38,510), Memphis ($38,360). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means medical assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.