Respiratory Therapist Salary in Tennessee
The median respiratory therapist salary in Tennessee is $64,191 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. Respiratory Therapist salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $64,191 per year, respiratory therapists in Tennessee earn $6,349 less than the national median of $70,540.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $64,191 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $72,125 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $43,680, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $90,090 — a $46,410 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 $71,951.
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $45,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,450 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 | $43,680 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,870 |
| Median (50th) | $64,191 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,260 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,090 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Tennessee
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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