How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in Tennessee
Respiratory Therapists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $65,000/year, which is 19% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $3,097/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a respiratory therapists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists 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 respiratory therapists 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 respiratory therapistss. 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 3,070 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Chattanooga.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $78K | $37.57/hr | 980 |
| Chattanooga | $73K | $35.12/hr | 300 |
| Memphis | $64K | $30.66/hr | 560 |
| Clarksville | $64K | $30.64/hr | 80 |
| Jackson | $63K | $30.33/hr | 100 |
| Knoxville | $63K | $30.06/hr | 430 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $61K | $29.44/hr | 160 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in Tennessee
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in Tennessee?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in Tennessee is $65,000 per year ($31.25/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $51,840 to $80,940.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in Tennessee?▼
Respiratory Therapists 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 respiratory therapists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $65,000, a respiratory therapists in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,509/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($78,140), Chattanooga ($73,050), Memphis ($63,760). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for respiratory therapists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means respiratory therapists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.