How to Become a Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Tennessee
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Tennessee earn a median salary of $55,270/year, which is 9% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a paralegals and legal assistants takes home approximately $2,459/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a paralegals and legal assistants can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a paralegals and legal assistants in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many paralegals and legal 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 paralegals and legal 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 5,890 paralegals and legal assistants. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Kingsport-Bristol.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $60K | $28.84/hr | 2,720 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $51K | $24.52/hr | 180 |
| Johnson City | $50K | $24.12/hr | 120 |
| Clarksville | $50K | $23.82/hr | 140 |
| Memphis | $49K | $23.61/hr | 1,170 |
| Chattanooga | $49K | $23.58/hr | 480 |
| Jackson | $48K | $23.28/hr | 110 |
| Knoxville | $48K | $23.28/hr | 680 |
| Cleveland | $46K | $22.09/hr | 40 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary range in Tennessee
Paralegals and Legal Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paralegals and legal assistants make in Tennessee?▼
The median paralegals and legal assistants salary in Tennessee is $55,270 per year ($26.57/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $61,010. Salaries range from $37,810 to $76,510.
What are the requirements to become a paralegals and legal assistants in Tennessee?▼
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Associate'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 paralegals and legal assistants afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $55,270, a paralegals and legal assistants in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,871/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paralegals and legal assistants in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paralegals and legal assistants in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($59,980), Kingsport-Bristol ($50,990), Johnson City ($50,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for paralegals and legal assistants?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means paralegals and legal assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.