Interior Designer Salary in Tennessee
The median interior designer salary in Tennessee is $54,815 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,590.
Interior Designer Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for interior designer compensation. Interior Designer salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,815 per year, interior designers in Tennessee earn $6,775 less than the national median of $61,590.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $54,815 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,590 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: interior designers at the 10th percentile earn $30,260, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $96,120 — a $65,860 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 $61,590.
Nationally, interior designer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for interior designers across the country.
Interior Designer Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level interior designer earns around $32,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,000 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,260 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,160 |
| Median (50th) | $54,815 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,980 |
| 90th Percentile | $96,120 |
Interior Designer Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for interior designers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Interior Designer in Tennessee
Education
Most interior designer positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, interior designer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Interior Designers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $34,185 over your career trajectory.
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