Registered Nurse Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $82,287 | -5.0% | Very High |
| Memphis | $72,759 | -16.0% | Very High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Registered Nurses. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $86,618 per year, Tennessee's Registered Nurse 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 $56,974–$68,952, while experienced Registered Nurses can command $95,904–$104,762.
Looking ahead, the Registered Nurse profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 4.2% 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 Registered Nurse salary in Tennessee?The average Registered Nurse salary in Tennessee is $86,618 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $98,430.
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What city in Tennessee pays Registered Nurses the most?Major metro areas typically pay Registered Nurses 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 Registered Nurses?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Registered Nurse employment.
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How does Tennessee Registered Nurse salary compare to the US average?At $86,618/year, Tennessee Registered Nurse salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $98,430/year.