Receptionist Salary in Tennessee
Based on 11K+ workers in Tennessee
Median Annual Salary (TN)
$34,910
$16.78/hr
vs National Average
$38,056
-8.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$25K – $46K
11K employed in Tennessee
The median Receptionist salary in Tennessee is $34,910 per year, which translates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 8.3% lower than the national average for this role, indicating a slightly more affordable cost of living or different market dynamics within the state.
Several factors influence the Receptionist salary in Tennessee, including years of experience, the specific industry of employment, and the geographic location within the state. For instance, receptionists in larger metropolitan areas might command higher wages than those in smaller towns. The size and type of the employing organization also play a role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Receptionist in Tennessee
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $25,400 |
| 25th percentile | $29,380 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $34,910 |
| 75th percentile | $39,840 |
| 90th percentile | $45,980 |
Top-Paying Industries for Receptionist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Receptionists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Receptionists in Tennessee tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction | $42,110 | 450 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $42,010 | 7K |
| Manufacturing | $41,220 | 12K |
| Real Estate and Rental and Leasing | $41,140 | 27K |
| Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting | $41,010 | 340 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Receptionist in Tennessee vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Tennessee) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $34,910 |
| 2026 (projected) | $35,957 |
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 | $34,910 | $38,056 |
| 2026 (projected) | $35,957 | $39,198 |
Receptionist Salary by Experience Level in Tennessee
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $29,380 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $34,910 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $39,840 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $45,980 |
Receptionist Salary in Other States
Related Receptionist Salaries in Tennessee
How other high-demand occupations in Tennessee compare to Receptionist ($34,910 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Receptionist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper in TN | $48,180 | +38.0% | $23.16/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in TN | $45,810 | +31.2% | $22.02/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in TN | $42,830 | +22.7% | $20.59/hr |
| Security Guard in TN | $36,000 | +3.1% | $17.31/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in TN | $36,140 | +3.5% | $17.38/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in TN | $36,420 | +4.3% | $17.51/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in TN | $32,130 | -8.0% | $15.45/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in TN | $31,950 | -8.5% | $15.36/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in TN | $37,990 | +8.8% | $18.26/hr |
| Tutor in TN | $38,730 | +10.9% | $18.62/hr |
| Medical Assistant in TN | $39,570 | +13.3% | $19.02/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in TN | $40,180 | +15.1% | $19.32/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Receptionist in Tennessee?
- The salary range for a Receptionist in Tennessee typically falls between $25,400 and $45,980 annually. The median annual salary is $34,910, with hourly rates around $17.
How does the Receptionist salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
- Receptionist salaries in Tennessee are approximately 8.3% lower than the national average. This means the typical earnings in Tennessee are below the national median for this profession.
How many Receptionists are employed in Tennessee?
- There are approximately 11,460 Receptionists currently employed in Tennessee. This number reflects the demand for administrative support roles across various industries within the state.
What is the average hourly pay for a Receptionist in Tennessee?
- The average hourly pay for a Receptionist in Tennessee is around $17. This hourly rate aligns with the median annual salary of $34,910, providing a clear understanding of potential earnings on an hourly basis.