Surgeon Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median surgeon salary in Chattanooga, TN is $229,599 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Surgeon Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median surgeon salary of $229,599, which is $2,551 below the Tennessee state average of $232,150. Compared to the national median of $255,110, Chattanooga pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Chattanooga's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $229,599 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $260,908 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for surgeons seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for surgeons in Chattanooga spans from $108,000 at the 10th percentile to $378,000 at the 90th percentile — a $270,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $117,000, while senior surgeons with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $360,000. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Surgeon Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level surgeon earns around $117,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $360,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $108,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $157,500 |
| Median (50th) | $229,599 |
| 75th Percentile | $315,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $378,000 |
Surgeon Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Surgeon in Chattanooga
Education
Most surgeon positions require a doctoral degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Surgeon Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open surgeon positions in Chattanooga, TN: