Optometrist Salary in Tennessee
The median optometrist salary in Tennessee is $114,287 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $114,287 per year, optometrists in Tennessee earn $11,303 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $114,287 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $128,412 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $70,980, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $174,720 — a $103,740 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 $128,102.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level optometrist earns around $74,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $161,980 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 | $70,980 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,000 |
| Median (50th) | $114,287 |
| 75th Percentile | $143,780 |
| 90th Percentile | $174,720 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Tennessee
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $47,693 over your career trajectory.
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