Respiratory Therapist Salary in Nashville, Tennessee
The median respiratory therapist salary in Nashville, TN is $71,951 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 12.1% above the Tennessee state average.
Respiratory Therapist Pay in Nashville: What to Expect (2026)
Nashville offers a median respiratory therapist salary of $71,951, which is $7,760 above the Tennessee state average of $64,191. Compared to the national median of $70,540, Nashville pays above average for this role.
Nashville's cost of living is 100% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for respiratory therapists in Nashville spans from $48,960 at the 10th percentile to $100,980 at the 90th percentile — a $52,020 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $51,000, while senior respiratory therapists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $96,900. As a major metro area with a population of 689,447, Nashville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Nashville by Experience
In Nashville, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $51,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Nashville, TN
| Percentile | Nashville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $48,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,140 |
| Median (50th) | $71,951 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $100,980 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Nashville
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Nashville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Nashville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Respiratory Therapist Jobs in Nashville
Browse open respiratory therapist positions in Nashville, TN: