How to Become a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Tennessee
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $36,440/year, which is 2% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers takes home approximately $1,198/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers 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 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers 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 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakerss. 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 2,180 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Memphis.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $38K | $18.34/hr | 680 |
| Memphis | $37K | $17.66/hr | 440 |
| Knoxville | $36K | $17.37/hr | 350 |
| Chattanooga | $36K | $17.22/hr | 190 |
| Clarksville | $36K | $17.21/hr | 60 |
| Johnson City | $35K | $16.65/hr | 70 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $33K | $15.8/hr | 110 |
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary range in Tennessee
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers make in Tennessee?▼
The median veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers salary in Tennessee is $36,440 per year ($17.52/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $37,320. Salaries range from $29,410 to $44,020.
What are the requirements to become a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Tennessee?▼
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers 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 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $36,440, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,610/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($38,150), Memphis ($36,740), Knoxville ($36,140). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.