Administrative Assistant Salary in Tennessee
Based on 35K+ workers in Tennessee
Median Annual Salary (TN)
$45,810
$22.02/hr
vs National Average
$47,012
-2.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$30K – $63K
35K employed in Tennessee
The median Administrative Assistant salary in Tennessee is $45,810 per year, which equates to roughly $22 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national average, with Tennessee earners making 2.6% less. With over 34,580 individuals employed in this role across the state, it represents a significant portion of the administrative workforce.
Several factors can influence the Administrative Assistant salary in Tennessee. Experience level plays a crucial role, with entry-level positions typically paying closer to the lower end of the $29,660 range, while seasoned professionals may earn towards the higher end, up to $63,130. The specific industry and the size and location of the employer can also impact compensation.
Salary Distribution — Administrative Assistant in Tennessee
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $29,660 |
| 25th percentile | $37,040 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $45,810 |
| 75th percentile | $54,000 |
| 90th percentile | $63,130 |
Top-Paying Industries for Administrative Assistant (U.S.)
Which industries pay Administrative Assistants the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Administrative Assistants in Tennessee tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $59,950 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $52,990 | 33K |
| Finance and Insurance | $49,850 | 85K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $49,730 | 182K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $49,040 | 188K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Administrative Assistant in Tennessee vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Tennessee) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,810 |
| 2026 (projected) | $47,184 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Tennessee Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,810 | $47,012 |
| 2026 (projected) | $47,184 | $48,422 |
Administrative Assistant Salary by Experience Level in Tennessee
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $37,040 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $45,810 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $54,000 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $63,130 |
Administrative Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Administrative Assistant Salaries in Tennessee
How other high-demand occupations in Tennessee compare to Administrative Assistant ($45,810 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Administrative Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper in TN | $48,180 | +5.2% | $23.16/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in TN | $42,830 | -6.5% | $20.59/hr |
| Receptionist in TN | $34,910 | -23.8% | $16.78/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in TN | $46,060 | +0.5% | $22.14/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in TN | $46,250 | +1.0% | $22.24/hr |
| Social Worker in TN | $46,500 | +1.5% | $22.36/hr |
| Construction Laborer in TN | $45,000 | -1.8% | $21.63/hr |
| Dental Assistant in TN | $46,720 | +2.0% | $22.46/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in TN | $47,240 | +3.1% | $22.71/hr |
| Firefighter in TN | $49,300 | +7.6% | $23.70/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in TN | $49,580 | +8.2% | $23.84/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in TN | $41,920 | -8.5% | $20.15/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for an Administrative Assistant in Tennessee?
- The salary range for an Administrative Assistant in Tennessee generally falls between $29,660 and $63,130 annually. The median salary is $45,810 per year.
How does the Administrative Assistant salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
- The Administrative Assistant salary in Tennessee is approximately 2.6% lower than the national average. This means Tennessee-based assistants tend to earn slightly less compared to their counterparts in other states.
How many Administrative Assistants are employed in Tennessee?
- There are an estimated 34,580 Administrative Assistants employed in Tennessee. This indicates a substantial demand for these roles across various industries within the state.
What hourly wage can an Administrative Assistant expect in Tennessee?
- Based on the median annual salary of $45,810, an Administrative Assistant in Tennessee can expect to earn around $22 per hour. This hourly rate can fluctuate depending on experience and employer.