How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistants in Tennessee
Physical Therapist Assistants in Tennessee earn a median salary of $62,920/year, which is 4% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a physical therapist assistants takes home approximately $2,971/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a physical therapist assistants can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a physical therapist assistants in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Physical Therapist 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 physical therapist 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 physical therapist 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 3,140 physical therapist assistants. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Morristown.
Physical Therapist Assistants salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $67K | $32.19/hr | 710 |
| Morristown | $67K | $32.03/hr | 70 |
| Cleveland | $63K | $30.52/hr | 40 |
| Chattanooga | $63K | $30.22/hr | 290 |
| Memphis | $63K | $30.12/hr | 560 |
| Johnson City | $62K | $29.97/hr | 80 |
| Clarksville | $61K | $29.17/hr | 100 |
| Knoxville | $60K | $29.03/hr | 390 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $60K | $29.02/hr | 150 |
| Jackson | $59K | $28.45/hr | 130 |
Physical Therapist Assistants salary range in Tennessee
Physical Therapist Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapist assistants make in Tennessee?▼
The median physical therapist assistants salary in Tennessee is $62,920 per year ($30.25/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $65,510. Salaries range from $48,670 to $79,640.
What are the requirements to become a physical therapist assistants in Tennessee?▼
Physical Therapist 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 physical therapist assistants afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $62,920, a physical therapist assistants in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,383/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physical therapist assistants in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physical therapist assistants in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($66,950), Morristown ($66,610), Cleveland ($63,480). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for physical therapist assistants?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means physical therapist assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.