Teacher (K-12) Salary in Tennessee
The median teacher (k-12) salary in Tennessee is $54,904 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,690.
Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. Teacher (K-12) salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,904 per year, teacher (k-12)s in Tennessee earn $6,786 less than the national median of $61,690.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $54,904 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,690 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $36,846, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,890 — a $53,044 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 $61,690.
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for teacher (k-12)s across the country.
Teacher (K-12) Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,880 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $54,904? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,846 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,432 |
| Median (50th) | $54,904 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,488 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,890 |
Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Teacher (K-12) in Tennessee
Education
Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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