Software Engineer Salary in Tennessee
The median software engineer salary in Tennessee is $110,538 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. Software Engineer salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $110,538 per year, software engineers in Tennessee earn $13,662 less than the national median of $124,200.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $110,538 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $124,200 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $66,394, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $176,736 — a $110,342 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 $124,200.
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level software engineer earns around $69,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $164,650 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $66,394 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,398 |
| Median (50th) | $110,538 |
| 75th Percentile | $140,798 |
| 90th Percentile | $176,736 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for software engineers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Software Engineer in Tennessee
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Software Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,112 over your career trajectory.
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