Optometrist Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $104,993 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $92,836 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Optometrists. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $110,519 per year, Tennessee's Optometrist 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 $64,894–$87,010, while experienced Optometrists can command $136,772–$156,350.
Looking ahead, the Optometrist profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 3.2% 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 Optometrist salary in Tennessee?The average Optometrist salary in Tennessee is $110,519 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $125,590.
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What city in Tennessee pays Optometrists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Optometrists 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 Optometrists?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Optometrist employment.
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How does Tennessee Optometrist salary compare to the US average?At $110,519/year, Tennessee Optometrist salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $125,590/year.