College Professor Salary in Nashville, Tennessee
The median college professor salary in Nashville, TN is $83,880 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the Tennessee state average.
College Professor Pay in Nashville: What to Expect (2026)
Nashville offers a median college professor salary of $83,880, which is $9,227 above the Tennessee state average of $74,653. Compared to the national median of $83,880, Nashville pays above average for this role.
Nashville's cost of living is 100% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for college professors in Nashville spans from $45,000 at the 10th percentile to $168,000 at the 90th percentile — a $123,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $48,000, while senior college professors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $160,000. As a major metro area with a population of 689,447, Nashville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
College Professor Salary in Nashville by Experience
In Nashville, an entry-level college professor earns around $48,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Nashville, TN
| Percentile | Nashville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,000 |
| Median (50th) | $83,880 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $168,000 |
College Professor Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a College Professor in Nashville
Education
Most college professor positions require a doctoral degree. Nashville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Nashville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find College Professor Jobs in Nashville
Browse open college professor positions in Nashville, TN: