Lawyer Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median lawyer salary in Knoxville, TN is $119,451 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Lawyer Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median lawyer salary of $119,451, which is $1,358 below the Tennessee state average of $120,809. Compared to the national median of $135,740, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $119,451 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $135,740 in an average-cost city. This makes Knoxville an attractive option for lawyers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for lawyers in Knoxville spans from $57,200 at the 10th percentile to $210,496 at the 90th percentile — a $153,296 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,600, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $193,600. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Lawyer Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, an entry-level lawyer earns around $61,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $193,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,800 |
| Median (50th) | $119,451 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,680 |
| 90th Percentile | $210,496 |
Lawyer Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Knoxville
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Lawyer Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open lawyer positions in Knoxville, TN: