How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in Tennessee
Medical Records Specialists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $49,740/year, which is 1% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $2,088/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a medical records specialists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical records specialists 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 records specialistss. 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 3,580 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $57K | $27.2/hr | 840 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $56K | $26.77/hr | 1,200 |
| Chattanooga | $50K | $24.28/hr | 310 |
| Jackson | $49K | $23.62/hr | 100 |
| Johnson City | $47K | $22.62/hr | 140 |
| Clarksville | $47K | $22.52/hr | 100 |
| Knoxville | $46K | $22.17/hr | 420 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $38K | $18.44/hr | 80 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in Tennessee
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in Tennessee?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in Tennessee is $49,740 per year ($23.91/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $35,930 to $78,830.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in Tennessee?▼
Medical Records Specialists positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor'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 medical records specialists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $49,740, a medical records specialists in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,500/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in Tennessee are Memphis ($56,580), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($55,680), Chattanooga ($50,490). 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 records specialists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means medical records specialists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.