Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Nashville, Tennessee
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Nashville, TN is $50,704 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 12.1% above the Tennessee state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Nashville: What to Expect (2026)
Nashville offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $50,704, which is $5,468 above the Tennessee state average of $45,236. Compared to the national median of $49,710, 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 substance abuse counselors in Nashville spans from $30,600 at the 10th percentile to $83,640 at the 90th percentile — a $53,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,660, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,560. 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.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Nashville by Experience
In Nashville, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $33,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Nashville, TN
| Percentile | Nashville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,760 |
| Median (50th) | $50,704 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,640 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Nashville
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Nashville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Nashville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Nashville
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Nashville, TN: