Average Dentist Salary in TennesseeNo State Income Tax
Dentists in Tennessee earn an average of $160,283 per year across 2 metro areas. This is +6.2% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$160,283
per year
Hourly Rate
$77.06
per hour
vs National
-6.2%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$105,587
to $234,892
About Dentist Careers in Tennessee
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They also provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health. As one of the highest-paid healthcare professions, dentists combine clinical expertise with entrepreneurial skills — most own or co-own their practices. The profession continues to evolve with advances in digital imaging, laser dentistry, and cosmetic procedures that command premium fees.
In Tennessee, dentists earn an average of $160,283 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $105,587 for entry-level roles to $234,892 for the most experienced professionals — +6.2% below the national average. Pay is influenced most by specialty (oral surgeons and orthodontists earn significantly more than general dentists), practice ownership vs. associate or corporate dentistry, and the specific metro area within Tennessee.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$160,283
Cost of Living Index
93
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$172,347
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Tennessee's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $160,283 has the purchasing power of $172,347 in an average-cost area. Additionally, Tennessee has no state income tax, further increasing take-home pay.
Dentist Salary by City in Tennessee
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville, TN | $168,693 | $81.10/hr | $109,323 | $247,326 | 129 |
| Memphis, TN | $151,872 | $73.02/hr | $101,851 | $222,457 | 136 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Tennessee vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Tennessee
There are approximately 265 Dentists employed across 2 metro areas in Tennessee.
Key Industries: Healthcare, Automotive, Music & Entertainment
State Income Tax: None (tax-free state)
Dentist Salary Range in Tennessee
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$105,587
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$160,283
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$234,892
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Tennessee
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Tennessee with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More Tennessee Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Tennessee?
The average Dentist salary in Tennessee is $160,283 per year ($77.06/hour) based on 2026 data across 2 metro areas. This is 6.2% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Tennessee?
Nashville, TN is the highest paying city for Dentists in Tennessee, with a median salary of $168,693 per year. The lowest paying metro area is Memphis, TN at $151,872.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Tennessee?
Dentist salaries in Tennessee range from $105,587 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $234,892 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $160,283 per year.
About This Data
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. State-level averages are calculated from metro area data within Tennessee. Figures represent 2026 estimates and may not reflect all employers or self-employed workers. Cost of living adjustments use regional indices to provide purchasing power context.