Retail Manager Salary in Tennessee
The median retail manager salary in Tennessee is $44,856 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $50,400.
Retail Manager Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for retail manager compensation. Retail Manager salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,856 per year, retail managers in Tennessee earn $5,544 less than the national median of $50,400.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $44,856 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $50,400 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: retail managers at the 10th percentile earn $26,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,880 — a $55,180 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 $50,400.
Nationally, retail manager employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for retail managers across the country.
Retail Manager Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level retail manager earns around $28,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,650 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,820 |
| Median (50th) | $44,856 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,880 |
Retail Manager Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for retail managers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Retail Manager in Tennessee
Education
Most retail manager positions require a high school diploma. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, retail manager employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Retail Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,794 over your career trajectory.
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