Data Engineer Salary in Tennessee
The median data engineer salary in Tennessee is $111,250 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Data Engineer salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $111,250 per year, data engineers in Tennessee earn $13,750 less than the national median of $125,000.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $111,250 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $125,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $69,420, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $169,100 — a $99,680 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Tennessee for this role is Nashville, where the median reaches $125,000.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level data engineer earns around $71,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,200 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,420 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,000 |
| Median (50th) | $111,250 |
| 75th Percentile | $140,620 |
| 90th Percentile | $169,100 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for data engineers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Data Engineer in Tennessee
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $48,950 over your career trajectory.
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