How to Become a Surgical Technologists in Tennessee
Surgical Technologists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $56,370/year, which is 10% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a surgical technologists takes home approximately $2,532/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a surgical technologists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a surgical technologists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Surgical Technologists positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many surgical technologists 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 surgical technologistss. 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 2,470 surgical technologists. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Surgical Technologists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $61K | $29.22/hr | 500 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $60K | $29.04/hr | 900 |
| Chattanooga | $56K | $27/hr | 280 |
| Jackson | $55K | $26.59/hr | 40 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $54K | $26.04/hr | 90 |
| Johnson City | $53K | $25.6/hr | 70 |
| Knoxville | $51K | $24.6/hr | 380 |
Surgical Technologists salary range in Tennessee
Surgical Technologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a surgical technologists make in Tennessee?▼
The median surgical technologists salary in Tennessee is $56,370 per year ($27.1/hr). This is 10% below the national median of $62,830. Salaries range from $47,060 to $73,110.
What are the requirements to become a surgical technologists in Tennessee?▼
Surgical Technologists positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor'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 surgical technologists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $56,370, a surgical technologists in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,944/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for surgical technologists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for surgical technologists in Tennessee are Memphis ($60,770), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($60,410), Chattanooga ($56,160). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for surgical technologists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means surgical technologists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.