Librarian Salary in Tennessee
The median librarian salary in Tennessee is $54,459 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,190.
Librarian Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for librarian compensation. Librarian salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,459 per year, librarians in Tennessee earn $6,731 less than the national median of $61,190.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $54,459 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,190 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: librarians at the 10th percentile earn $34,888, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $85,974 — a $51,086 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 $61,190.
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for librarians across the country.
Librarian Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level librarian earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,320 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 | $34,888 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,610 |
| Median (50th) | $54,459 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,708 |
| 90th Percentile | $85,974 |
Librarian Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for librarians in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Librarian in Tennessee
Education
Most librarian positions require a master's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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