Vet assistant salary in Tennessee
Vet assistants in Tennessee earned a median of $36,320 a year in May 2025, about $17.46 an hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That is 5% below the U.S. median of $38,150. Eight in ten earned between $30,230 (10th percentile) and $43,700 (90th percentile).
Vet assistant pay in Tennessee
| Level | A year | An hour |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30,230 | $14.53 |
| Median | $36,320 | $17.46 |
| 90th percentile | $43,700 | $21.01 |
Tennessee ranks 38 of 51 (the 50 states plus D.C.) by median vet assistant pay. BLS reports veterinary assistants together with laboratory animal caretakers, so these figures include both.
Jobs in Tennessee
Browse veterinary jobs in Tennessee, with pay shown when the employer states it.
Other veterinary roles in Tennessee
| Role | Median a year | Median an hour | U.S. median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vet tech | $42,810 | $20.58 | $47,380 |
| Vet assistant | $36,320 | $17.46 | $38,150 |
| Veterinarian | $124,350 | $59.78 | $130,100 |
Training
Most vet assistants train on the job. If you want a structured start or a credential, see vet assistant programs and certification; to earn more, compare vet tech pay in Tennessee and how to become a vet tech.
FAQ
How much does a vet assistant make in Tennessee?
The median was $36,320 a year in May 2025 (BLS), 5% below the U.S. median of $38,150.
How much does a vet assistant make an hour in Tennessee?
About $17.46 an hour at the median, from the BLS yearly figure of $36,320 divided by 2,080 hours.
How does Tennessee rank for vet assistant pay?
Tennessee ranks 38 of 51 (the 50 states plus D.C.) by BLS median pay. The highest medians were Rhode Island ($49,770), District of Columbia ($49,080), Massachusetts ($46,670).
Figures are BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) estimates for May 2025, the latest release, for wage and salary workers (the self-employed are not included). The median is the middle wage: half earned more, half earned less. Hourly figures are the yearly figure divided by 2,080 hours, the way BLS converts between the two. Retrieved from the BLS Public Data API on November 5, 2026.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025, veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: OEWS state estimates (Public Data API)
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