Dentist Salary in Nashville
2026 compensation data for Dentist positions in Nashville, TN. Ranges from $129,000 (entry-level) to $287,000 (senior). Median: $183,000.
Median (Mid)
$183,000
$87.98/hr
vs National
+0%
US: $183,000
COL Index
105
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$287,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $129,000 | $150,000 | $173,000 | $72.12/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $158,000 | $183,000 | $213,000 | $87.98/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $198,000 | $238,000 | $287,000 | $114.42/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Nashville
A mid-level dentist earning $183,000 in Nashville has the same buying power as $174,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 105).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Dentist Salaries in Nashville
The median dentist salary in Nashville, TN is $183,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 105 (national average = 100), Nashville offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level dentists in Nashville can expect to earn between $129,000 and $173,000 (about $72.12/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $287,000 ($287K annually, or about $137.98/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Nashville.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dentist Salary in Nashville
What is the average Dentist salary in Nashville?+
The average Dentist salary in Nashville is $183,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $150,000 and senior-level pay reaches $238,000.
How much does an entry-level dentist make in Nashville?+
Entry-level dentists in Nashville earn between $129,000 and $173,000, with a median of $150,000 per year (about $72.12/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Dentist in Nashville?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Dentist in Nashville earns roughly $72.12/hour at entry-level, $87.98/hour at mid-level, and $114.42/hour at senior-level.
Is the Dentist salary in Nashville higher than the US average?+
Yes — Dentist salaries in Nashville are about 0% higher than the US national median of $183,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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