Surgeon Salary in Tennessee
The median surgeon salary in Tennessee is $232,150 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $255,110.
Surgeon Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for surgeon compensation. Surgeon salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $232,150 per year, surgeons in Tennessee earn $22,960 less than the national median of $255,110.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $232,150 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $260,843 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: surgeons at the 10th percentile earn $109,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $382,200 — a $273,000 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 $260,212.
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for surgeons across the country.
Surgeon Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level surgeon earns around $118,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $364,000 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 | $109,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $159,250 |
| Median (50th) | $232,150 |
| 75th Percentile | $318,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $382,200 |
Surgeon Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for surgeons in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Surgeon in Tennessee
Education
Most surgeon positions require a doctoral degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Surgeons who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $131,850 over your career trajectory.
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