How to Become a Opticians, Dispensing in Tennessee
Opticians, Dispensings in Tennessee earn a median salary of $47,850/year, which is 3% above the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a opticians, dispensing takes home approximately $1,962/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a opticians, dispensing can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a opticians, dispensing in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Opticians, Dispensing 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 opticians, dispensing 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 opticians, dispensings. 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 1,640 opticians, dispensings. The highest concentrations are in Johnson City and Morristown.
Opticians, Dispensing salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Johnson City | $51K | $24.32/hr | 50 |
| Morristown | $49K | $23.78/hr | 40 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $49K | $23.53/hr | 480 |
| Knoxville | $47K | $22.66/hr | 220 |
| Memphis | $47K | $22.44/hr | 220 |
| Clarksville | $46K | $22.01/hr | 70 |
| Chattanooga | $45K | $21.56/hr | 130 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $43K | $20.62/hr | 110 |
| Jackson | $37K | $17.94/hr | 60 |
Opticians, Dispensing salary range in Tennessee
Opticians, Dispensing careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a opticians, dispensing make in Tennessee?▼
The median opticians, dispensing salary in Tennessee is $47,850 per year ($23.01/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $46,560. Salaries range from $31,580 to $70,970.
What are the requirements to become a opticians, dispensing in Tennessee?▼
Opticians, Dispensing 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 opticians, dispensing afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $47,850, a opticians, dispensing in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,374/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for opticians, dispensings in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for opticians, dispensings in Tennessee are Johnson City ($50,580), Morristown ($49,450), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($48,940). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for opticians, dispensings?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means opticians, dispensings keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.