Crane Operator Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median crane operator salary in Knoxville, TN is $56,628 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median crane operator salary of $56,628, which is $644 below the Tennessee state average of $57,272. Compared to the national median of $64,350, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $56,628 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $64,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Knoxville an attractive option for crane operators seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for crane operators in Knoxville spans from $35,200 at the 10th percentile to $88,000 at the 90th percentile — a $52,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,960, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,600. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Crane Operator Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, an entry-level crane operator earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,000 |
| Median (50th) | $56,628 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Knoxville
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open crane operator positions in Knoxville, TN: