Truck Driver Salary in Tennessee
The median truck driver salary in Tennessee is $44,429 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $49,920.
Truck Driver Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #42 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. Truck Driver salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,429 per year, truck drivers in Tennessee earn $5,491 less than the national median of $49,920.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $44,429 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,920 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $29,548, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $69,420 — a $39,872 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 $49,920.
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for truck drivers across the country.
Truck Driver Salary in Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level truck driver earns around $31,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,080 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,548 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,778 |
| Median (50th) | $44,429 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,782 |
| 90th Percentile | $69,420 |
Truck Driver Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for truck drivers in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Truck Driver in Tennessee
Education
Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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