Museum Curator Salary in Tennessee
The median museum curator salary in Tennessee is $53,498 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $60,110.
Museum Curator Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for museum curator compensation. Museum Curator salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $53,498 per year, museum curators in Tennessee earn $6,612 less than the national median of $60,110.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $53,498 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $60,110 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: museum curators at the 10th percentile earn $31,150, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $87,220 — a $56,070 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 $60,110.
Nationally, museum curator employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Museum Curator Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level museum curator earns around $33,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,880 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 | $31,150 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,160 |
| Median (50th) | $53,498 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,420 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,220 |
Museum Curator Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for museum curators in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Museum Curator in Tennessee
Education
Most museum curator positions require a master's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, museum curator employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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