Mental Health Counselor Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $44,902 | -5.0% | Very High |
| Memphis | $39,703 | -16.0% | Very High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Mental Health Counselors. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $47,265 per year, Tennessee's Mental Health Counselor salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $30,868–$39,902, while experienced Mental Health Counselors can command $60,228–$67,877.
Looking ahead, the Mental Health Counselor profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 5.2% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Mental Health Counselor salary in Tennessee?The average Mental Health Counselor salary in Tennessee is $47,265 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $53,710.
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What city in Tennessee pays Mental Health Counselors the most?Major metro areas typically pay Mental Health Counselors the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Tennessee a good state for Mental Health Counselors?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Mental Health Counselor employment.
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How does Tennessee Mental Health Counselor salary compare to the US average?At $47,265/year, Tennessee Mental Health Counselor salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $53,710/year.