How to Become a Physician Assistants in Tennessee
Physician Assistants in Tennessee earn a median salary of $113,990/year, which is 14% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a physician assistants takes home approximately $5,970/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a physician assistants can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a physician assistants in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Physician Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physician 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 physician 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 2,380 physician assistants. The highest concentrations are in Chattanooga and Memphis.
Physician Assistants salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga | $125K | $60.17/hr | 200 |
| Memphis | $124K | $59.74/hr | 330 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $124K | $59.62/hr | 810 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $123K | $59.23/hr | 160 |
| Clarksville | $112K | $54/hr | 60 |
| Cleveland | $109K | $52.64/hr | 30 |
| Knoxville | $106K | $50.89/hr | 290 |
| Johnson City | $105K | $50.6/hr | 160 |
| Jackson | $101K | $48.58/hr | 50 |
Physician Assistants salary range in Tennessee
Physician Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physician assistants make in Tennessee?▼
The median physician assistants salary in Tennessee is $113,990 per year ($54.8/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $133,260. Salaries range from $91,830 to $136,970.
What are the requirements to become a physician assistants in Tennessee?▼
Physician Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Master'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 physician assistants afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $113,990, a physician assistants in Tennessee would take home approximately $7,382/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physician assistants in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physician assistants in Tennessee are Chattanooga ($125,160), Memphis ($124,260), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($124,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for physician assistants?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means physician assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.