Dental Assistant Salary in Memphis, TN: $41,932 (2024)

The median dental assistant salary in Memphis, TN is $41,932 per year ($20.16/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $28,209 for entry-level positions to $60,573 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level dental assistants in Memphis, TN typically start at around $28,209 per year ($13.56/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $41,932 within 3-5 years.

Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN earn a median hourly wage of $20.16 per hour. Hourly rates range from $13.56/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $29.12/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $28,209 and $60,573.

The median dental assistant salary of $41,932 in Memphis, TN is slightly below the national median of $46,540 (9.9% lower). Plus, the cost of living is 12% below the national average, stretching your salary further. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of dental assistants in the area earn more and half earn less.

Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN earn slightly below the national average. The local median salary of $41,932 is 9.9% lower than the national median of $46,540. Plus, the cost of living is 12% below the national average, stretching your salary further. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $47,759.

The top 10% of dental assistants in Memphis, TN earn $60,573 or more per year ($29.12/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $49,631, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost dental assistant salary in Memphis, TN include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $41,932, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($49,631) or higher. Years of relevant experience

Memphis, TN has a specialized job market for dental assistants, with approximately 290 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $41,932 is slightly below the national average. Plus, the cost of living is 12% below the national average, stretching your salary further. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your dental assistant salary to these Memphis, TN benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $28,209, 25th percentile: $33,393, 50th percentile (median): $41,932, 75th percentile: $49,631, 90th percentile (top earners): $60,573. If you earn more than $41,932, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $41,932 median base salary, dental assistants in Memphis, TN typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced dental assistants with 5-10 years in Memphis, TN typically earn $49,631 (75th percentile) to $60,573 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $60,573. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $41,932.

Dental Assistants in Memphis, TN can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($28,209) to median ($41,932) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($60,573) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $32,364 over a career.