Systems Administrator Salary in Tennessee
The median systems administrator salary in Tennessee is $75,481 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $84,810.
Systems Administrator Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #34 out of 50 states for systems administrator compensation. Systems Administrator salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $75,481 per year, systems administrators in Tennessee earn $9,329 less than the national median of $84,810.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $75,481 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $84,810 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: systems administrators at the 10th percentile earn $46,280, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,480 — a $71,200 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 $84,810.
Nationally, systems administrator employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for systems administrators across the country.
Systems Administrator Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $48,950, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,250 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $46,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,630 |
| Median (50th) | $75,481 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,480 |
Systems Administrator Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for systems administrators in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Systems Administrator in Tennessee
Education
Most systems administrator positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, systems administrator 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 Systems Administrators who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $35,769 over your career trajectory.
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