Psychiatrist Salary in Tennessee
The median psychiatrist salary in Tennessee is $232,623 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $255,630.
Psychiatrist Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for psychiatrist compensation. Psychiatrist salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $232,623 per year, psychiatrists in Tennessee earn $23,007 less than the national median of $255,630.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $232,623 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $261,374 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: psychiatrists at the 10th percentile earn $109,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $364,000 — a $254,800 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 $260,743.
Nationally, psychiatrist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for psychiatrists across the country.
Psychiatrist Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level psychiatrist earns around $113,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $350,350 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $232,623+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $109,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $159,250 |
| Median (50th) | $232,623 |
| 75th Percentile | $300,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $364,000 |
Psychiatrist Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for psychiatrists in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Psychiatrist in Tennessee
Education
Most psychiatrist positions require a doctoral degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, psychiatrist employment is projected to grow 7% 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 Psychiatrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $117,727 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Psychiatrist Roles in Tennessee?
Get matched with recruiters hiring psychiatrists in Tennessee at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: