How to Become a Optometrists in Tennessee
Optometrists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $110,660/year, which is 18% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a optometrists takes home approximately $5,774/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a optometrists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a optometrists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Optometrists positions in Tennessee typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many optometrists 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 optometristss. 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 590 optometrists. The highest concentrations are in Kingsport-Bristol and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Optometrists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kingsport-Bristol | $135K | $64.79/hr | 50 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $119K | $57.34/hr | 190 |
| Memphis | $113K | $54.34/hr | 100 |
| Chattanooga | $109K | $52.37/hr | 50 |
| Knoxville | $107K | $51.44/hr | 90 |
Optometrists salary range in Tennessee
Optometrists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a optometrists make in Tennessee?▼
The median optometrists salary in Tennessee is $110,660 per year ($53.2/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $134,830. Salaries range from $55,510 to $174,710.
What are the requirements to become a optometrists in Tennessee?▼
Optometrists positions in Tennessee typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a optometrists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $110,660, a optometrists in Tennessee would take home approximately $7,186/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for optometrists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for optometrists in Tennessee are Kingsport-Bristol ($134,760), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($119,270), Memphis ($113,030). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for optometrists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means optometrists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.