Marine Engineer Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median marine engineer salary in Chattanooga, TN is $85,281 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Marine Engineer Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median marine engineer salary of $85,281, which is $969 below the Tennessee state average of $86,250. Compared to the national median of $96,910, Chattanooga pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Chattanooga's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $85,281 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $96,910 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for marine engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for marine engineers in Chattanooga spans from $51,040 at the 10th percentile to $133,760 at the 90th percentile — a $82,720 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $54,560, while senior marine engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $127,600. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Marine Engineer Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level marine engineer earns around $54,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $127,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,880 |
| Median (50th) | $85,281 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $133,760 |
Marine Engineer Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Marine Engineer in Chattanooga
Education
Most marine engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, marine engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Marine Engineer Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open marine engineer positions in Chattanooga, TN: