Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Dentists in Nashville get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Nashville metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $131,600 | $100,100 | $171,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $163,600 | $124,400 | $212,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $188,100 | $143,000 | $244,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $225,700 | $171,600 | $293,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $255,800 | $194,400 | $332,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Dentists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Dentist salary in the Nashville metro is $188,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $143,000 to $244,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $310,400 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Dentists. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Nashville vs. national: -5%. Nashville pays roughly in line with the national average for Dentists. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Dentist salary of $188,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Dentists in Nashville start around $131,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $225,700 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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