Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Tennessee
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Tennessee is $45,236 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $45,236 per year, substance abuse counselors in Tennessee earn $4,474 less than the national median of $49,710.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $45,236 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $50,827 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $27,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $74,620 — a $47,320 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 $50,704.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Tennessee and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $30,030, while experienced professionals earn up to $70,980 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 | $27,300 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,580 |
| Median (50th) | $45,236 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,150 |
| 90th Percentile | $74,620 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Tennessee
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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