Registered Nurse Salary in Tennessee
The median registered nurse salary in Tennessee is $73,910 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $73,910 per year, registered nurses in Tennessee earn $7,310 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $73,910 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,045 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $52,234, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $109,928 — a $57,694 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 $82,844.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $52,780, while experienced professionals earn up to $104,650 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,234 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,788 |
| Median (50th) | $73,910 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,001 |
| 90th Percentile | $109,928 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Tennessee
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% 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 Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,740 over your career trajectory.
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