Lawyer Salary in Tennessee
The median lawyer salary in Tennessee is $120,809 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $135,740.
Lawyer Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for lawyer compensation. Lawyer salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $120,809 per year, lawyers in Tennessee earn $14,931 less than the national median of $135,740.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $120,809 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $135,740 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: lawyers at the 10th percentile earn $57,850, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $212,888 — a $155,038 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 $135,740.
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for lawyers across the country.
Lawyer Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level lawyer earns around $62,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,800 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 | $57,850 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,650 |
| Median (50th) | $120,809 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,540 |
| 90th Percentile | $212,888 |
Lawyer Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for lawyers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Lawyer in Tennessee
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Lawyers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $74,991 over your career trajectory.
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