Healthcare Tennessee (TN) Rank #34 of 50

Genetic Counselor Salary in Tennessee

The median genetic counselor salary in Tennessee is $81,891 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $89,990.

Median Salary
$81,891
vs National
$-8,099
State Rank
#34 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Genetic Counselor Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)

Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for genetic counselor compensation. Genetic Counselor salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $81,891 per year, genetic counselors in Tennessee earn $8,099 less than the national median of $89,990.

A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $81,891 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $92,012 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: genetic counselors at the 10th percentile earn $54,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $118,300 — a $63,700 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 $91,790.

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.

Genetic Counselor Salary in Tennessee by Experience

In Tennessee, an entry-level genetic counselor earns around $56,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $113,750 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$56,420
$-5,580 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$82,810
$-8,190 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$113,750
$-11,250 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Tennessee

Percentile TN Salary
10th Percentile $54,600
25th Percentile $67,340
Median (50th) $81,891
75th Percentile $98,280
90th Percentile $118,300

Genetic Counselor Salary by City in Tennessee

The largest employment areas for genetic counselors in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Genetic Counselor in Tennessee

Education

Most genetic counselor positions require a master's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

GeneticsPatient CounselingPedigree AnalysisGenetic TestingCommunicationEthics

Job Outlook in Tennessee

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Genetic Counselor Salary in Tennessee

How much does a Genetic Counselor make in Tennessee? ▼
The median genetic counselor salary in Tennessee is $81,891 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $89,990. Salaries range from $54,600 (10th percentile) to $118,300 (90th percentile).
How much does a Genetic Counselor make per hour in Tennessee? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $81,891, a genetic counselor in Tennessee earns approximately $39 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Tennessee a good state for genetic counselors? ▼
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for genetic counselor pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level genetic counselors earn $56,420, while senior professionals earn $113,750.
How does Tennessee compare to other states for genetic counselor salary? ▼
The highest paying state for genetic counselors is Hawaii at $160,182. Tennessee's median of $81,891 ranks #34 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Louisiana ($81,891) and New Mexico ($81,891).
What is the entry-level genetic counselor salary in Tennessee? ▼
An entry-level genetic counselor in Tennessee earns approximately $56,420 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $82,810. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $113,750.
What city in Tennessee pays genetic counselors the most? ▼
Nashville is the highest paying city in Tennessee for genetic counselors, with a median salary of $91,790. Other cities include Memphis and Knoxville.