Physicist Salary in Tennessee
The median physicist salary in Tennessee is $135,663 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. Physicist salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $135,663 per year, physicists in Tennessee earn $16,767 less than the national median of $152,430.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $135,663 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $152,430 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $69,420, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $211,820 — a $142,400 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 $152,430.
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for physicists across the country.
Physicist Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level physicist earns around $72,980, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,800 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 | $69,420 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,120 |
| Median (50th) | $135,663 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,820 |
Physicist Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for physicists in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physicist in Tennessee
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% 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 Physicists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $60,137 over your career trajectory.
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