Human Resources Manager Salary in Tennessee
The median human resources manager salary in Tennessee is $115,700 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $130,000.
Human Resources Manager Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for human resources manager compensation. Human Resources Manager salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $115,700 per year, human resources managers in Tennessee earn $14,300 less than the national median of $130,000.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $115,700 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $130,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: human resources managers at the 10th percentile earn $69,598, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $185,120 — a $115,522 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 $130,000.
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for human resources managers across the country.
Human Resources Manager Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level human resources manager earns around $57,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $146,850 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $115,700+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,598 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,890 |
| Median (50th) | $115,700 |
| 75th Percentile | $148,630 |
| 90th Percentile | $185,120 |
Human Resources Manager Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for human resources managers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Human Resources Manager in Tennessee
Education
Most human resources manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Human Resources Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,150 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Human Resources Manager Roles in Tennessee?
Get matched with recruiters hiring human resources managers in Tennessee at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: