Geologist Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median geologist salary in Chattanooga, TN is $73,638 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Geologist Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median geologist salary of $73,638, which is $837 below the Tennessee state average of $74,475. Compared to the national median of $83,680, Chattanooga pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Chattanooga's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $73,638 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $83,680 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for geologists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for geologists in Chattanooga spans from $44,880 at the 10th percentile to $130,240 at the 90th percentile — a $85,360 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $47,520, while senior geologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $123,200. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Geologist Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level geologist earns around $47,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,440 |
| Median (50th) | $73,638 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $130,240 |
Geologist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Geologist in Chattanooga
Education
Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Geologist Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open geologist positions in Chattanooga, TN: